Earth is our only home. So that makes every person on the planet a member of one big family. We all breathe the same air and must share our food and water.
Unfortunately, there are countless problems people are facing today. Poverty, hunger, income inequalities, lack of education, climate change, and world peace are only the tip of the iceberg.
And while it may initially seem overwhelming to take a stand or voice obvious concerns, individuals are stepping up. They are willing to take on social responsibility.
Over the years, studies have shown that there is greater awareness about issues that people are facing around the world. There is no denying that the world could use a little TLC. And once you do something to make a positive impact, you will be left with the feeling of wanting to do more.
It’s about time we speak up and take action.
“Our task must be to free ourselves by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature and beauty.”
- Albert Einstein
This wise man left a message for us as to how we can make the world a better place for everyone. Here are three changes that I feel everyone should consider:
1. Empathy and sympathy are key
It’s hard to see people suffer. The ability to view a situation from another person’s perspective and to imagine ourselves in that position is an essential aspect of empathy.
But understanding how another person feels is only the first step. Sympathizing, or feeling sorry, is the most logical response. In fact, it is vital for humanity. But being overwhelmed by someone’s problems does not resolve the issue. It is in our capacity to make a difference.
Compassionate action is required. Extending kindness to others can be as simple as uttering a few words of comfort or as grand as setting up a charity. Generally speaking, giving donations to a good cause is something we can all do, whether it’s food, clothes, or money. Everyone is doing it, from local communities to multinational firms such as Microsoft, Walmart, and Unilever. As Albert Einstein said, you need to widen your circle. Get more people interested. If we work together and simply focus on one aspect- that every living creature has a basic right to food, water, and shelter- we are doing the bare minimum that we are expected to do as human beings.
2. Spread greenery
Walking outside and enjoying Mother Nature’s beauty is the ideal way to relax. Are you doing enough to improve the environment?
You don’t have to think too hard. Though recycling and conservation are common topics of discussion, how about spreading your love with merely a plant?
Start from your backyard. Plant a small garden and reconnect with nature. You’ll be surprised by the impact this little patch can make. It’ll attract bees and butterflies and provide food and shelter to numerous other creatures.
It feels good to create a positive influence on things surrounding us. Plus, seeing the encouraging results day in and day out is great for our ego! And now, people and businesses alike are striving to undo the damage that has been done to the environment. Some, like Manuel Diaz, are working at making our cities greener. Planting trees is a simple way to reduce the excessive levels of carbon dioxide, one of the culprits of climate change. So it’s a win-win situation.
3. Recognize that everything you do has consequences
This applies to the good and the bad. But considering the current state of the planet, you need to keep in mind that everything you do has long-term consequences.
Taking responsibility for your actions is the first phase of initiating a change. Because if you do not act now, there won’t be much of a future for generations to come.
To lessen the negative impact of our presence, understand which activities are creating unpleasant results.
Devise solutions to stop the process as well as rectify the situation. This ideology can be applied to every aspect of our goal to make the world a better place.
So whether it’s inviting people of opposing political views to sit down for a friendly discussion to resolve their differences, or choosing not to buy merchandise from a company that exploits people, animals, and the environment, what you do today should speak on behalf of your core values.
And it’s getting easier to speak up. 66% of consumers say it’s essential for brands to take public stands on social and political issues. Coming together on one platform helps to collaborate efforts and magnifies the outcome. Companies like Verizon and Made Of are already making headway in this department. When brands bring ideas into the mainstream, they set an example for others how easily things can be accomplished.
Wrapping up
Human ability is a relatively new concept. It simply means doing more good things for the world. So even though we live in a materialistic society, we must learn to coexist in harmony with every element of the planet. That can be gained if we begin to see beyond our immediate bubble of tranquility.
You have a responsibility to articulate your opinions about injustices happening all over the world. So let’s start doing something today, even if it is only baby steps. And before you begin, realize that you have the power to make a change.
Wouldn’t you like to live in a better, happier world?
