“It’s very difficult to think of these interrelated problems and how we’re going to solve them. . . We must not give up. . .
“It’s only when we learn to operate with head and heart in harmony that we can achieve our true human potential”
— Jane Goodall
Thank you, Jane.
How do we tackle these interrelated problems? If we want, we could dive into the social, global, political, and other complexities that surround this question. Or we could keep it straightforward.
Step 1: Transform people who don’t care into people who do care.
Step 2: Create opportunities for people who do care to (A) create positive habits and (B) take meaningful action.
Let’s simplify even further.
It starts with a shift in perspective. Sure, it’s a global shift, but it begins on an individual level.
Take a deep breath. Notice the things around you. Exhale. Send out an intention of kindness and love—to yourself, to others, or to the world.
Make this a daily practice. Align it with a recurring moment in your morning—the first sip of coffee, the sound of birds outside, or the act of stepping out the door.
Beyond this simple breath, you don’t have to commit to anything. But for those ready to take an extra step, here’s a fun acronym. Eh hem . . .
Give a $#!+
(If the implied expletive jars the vibe, don’t worry—we’ll adjust later.)
Let’s break it down.
$ represents generosity
Whether you have a lot or a little, consider your possessions through the lens of generosity and abundance.
Do you know someone exceptionally generous? Someone who gives without expecting anything in return? These people often have a magnetic quality and command respect.
Reciprocity is one of six pillars in Robert Cialdini’s Influence. Giving to others naturally compels them to give back to you. This fundamental aspect of human nature might serve as reassurance for why it’s beneficial to adopt a generous mindset, but don’t do it to manipulate people. Then we’d be missing the point.
# represents your digital voice
Our global consciousness has been evolving for millennia. And from oral traditions, to the printing press, to the internet, the rate at which this global consciousness forms is rapidly accelerating.
Use your voice online to say something meaningful. As Jane Goodall reminds us, “It’s only when we learn to operate with head and heart in harmony that we can achieve our true human potential.”
When in doubt, consult your heart. Authenticity resonates, and your contributions can nudge our collective consciousness in a positive direction.
! represents your human voice
This voice predates all technology and connects us to our lives’ most meaningful relationships. Amid the digital noise, don’t forget the value of in-person connections.
Show compassion in your interactions. Share your true self, even when it feels vulnerable. Genuine engagement uplifts you and those around you.
+ represents positivity
Positivity doesn’t mean ignoring problems or pretending everything is fine. It’s about channeling your energy in ways that foster progress.
If you oppose harmful practices, lead more by example than aggression. Though there’s a place for righteous anger, remember that when you tell someone they’re wrong, they typically double down on their “wrong” behavior.
That’s because you’ve tried to take away their sense of self, and they will do whatever it takes to preserve it. Leading by example and speaking the language of possibility and creativity will get us farther, faster.
Returning to Our Steps
Step 1: Inspire more people to care.
Step 2: Empower those who care with opportunities to create habits and take actions that make a positive difference.
Breathe in. Appreciate your surroundings. Breathe out love and kindness.
This simple practice sparks the mindset shift needed for global transformation.
This story was originally posted on Medium, Dec. 26 2023.
Footnote
1 — Kate Raworth’s Doughnut Economics describes three studies on “The Ultimatum Game,” revealing how cultures differ in reciprocity norms. North American students typically share 45%, rejecting offers below 20%. Peru’s Machiguenga culture tends toward 25% offers, accepted due to household-centric norms. Indonesia’s Lamelara culture, rooted in cooperative whale hunting, averages 60%, nearly always accepted.
References
Goodall, J. (2017). Dr. Jane Goodall Teaches Conservation. MasterClass. https://www.masterclass.com/classes/jane-goodall-teaches-conservation
Cialdini, R. B. (1984). Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion. Revised edition (2006). New York: Harper Business.
Raworth, K. (2017). Doughnut Economics: Seven Ways to Think Like a 21st-Century Economist. Chelsea Green Publishing.
