If we want to make a difference in the world, we need to create both the internal and external conditions that will support us in making the biggest impact. The African youth hence must have a resolution: say I will not complain about anything I’m not proactively doing something to change it. The fact is, the world itself, has own problem and so people are everyday busy to finding solutions to problems than just listening to complains. Complaining all times about situations, politicians and other nuisances, will never bring anything to the table. But positioning ourselves holding to our capabilities, yearning and busy to find solutions than to just complaining, that alone can break through to our personal lives and the African continent at large.
Comparatively, the rate at which youths of other continents are busily being innovative and creating things, busy finding solutions than complains. You could see the African youth indeed are less creating change. I (Jude Asante) always ask myself this: who are next when tomorrow we don’t have Dangote, ZoomLion and other great persons of the African continent existing?
Because the African have not been innovation and solution oriented, that is why the African is globally perceived to be just a consumer. Let us rack our brains in times of difficulties as our continent faces, to come out with solutions, business establishments, technological advancements and many more. This when we do, will solve most of the problems we complain about. Anytime when there is a problem, ask yourself ‘what can I do to help – can I employ my God giving power, brain and capability, come out with some innovative solution?’ than to sit down and complaining. Complaining to who? So you don’t have not even a little power to do something than always waiting for a solution from others? Let challenge ourselves for a higher height. It is really proven that the black man is best, knows best, and can do the best when challenged.
Here are some important ways you can empower yourself to create meaningful change with both grace and strength.
1. Remember that feeling “bad” about things doesn’t change anything.
While it is important to feel these events fully, we lose our power when we let feelings of sadness, anger, or fear replace our ability to act. Remember that these feelings are messengers telling us that we want things to be different, that we want change. Acknowledge your feelings, listen to their message, and then let them empower you to make a difference.
2. Focus on issues that speak to your heart, and do something about those.
No one can do it all, so it is best to focus on one or two things you can do well, and then commit fully to your cause. Trust that you will be the best at what inspires your heart the most. Then consider how you can best make a difference. Maybe you can give your time to directly help the situation. Alternately, use your voice to educate others about a cause or make a monetary donation. The more you feel and see yourself making a difference, the more passionate you will be about continuing to create change.
3. Avoid becoming overwhelmed.
Be careful not to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. Focus on what you can affect, and trust that other people will take care of the issues that matter to them—we’re all in this together. Also, take time to look at the positive outcomes from challenging situations, such as the way adversity can bring people together to make a difference. Sometimes our “default” is to focus on the negative things. In reality, billions of positive things are happening at every moment.
4. Find community.
Remember that we can do more together! Sometimes we are afraid to act alone, but when we harness the power of community, we are empowered by this connection and collaboration with others. Find people devoted to your cause, and build on the energy that comes from working collectively toward a greater good. Broadening your sense of community also helps with feelings of isolation and helplessness, as you witness others’ important contributions.
5. Practice self-compassion, patience, and positive self-reflection.
We often see only what we “could have done” or “should have done better,” which is discouraging and minimizes the importance of our efforts. One of the most important parts of serving is to reflect on what you did and why it helped. This creates positive mental imprints and releases endorphins in the brain, increasing your chances of being proactive again in the future and improving your efficacy.
6. Be resilient and avoid discouragement.
If it’s cultural change you’re working for, remember that it doesn’t happen overnight. There will be harsh reminders that progress is not always linear. Remember that adversity does not always denote a lack of progress. Progress takes time. Have faith that you are planting seeds that will ultimately blossom into positive change.
7. Prioritize your time.
We might often think we don’t have enough time to help, when in reality, we do. Recognize that saying “I don’t have time for that” is just a softer way of saying “I don’t prioritize that.” Reflect on how you prioritize your time, and make appropriate changes. Instead of going out for a drink with friends, try working together on a service project or fundraiser. For example, you could devote one night a week to cooking a meal for homeless youth. Create a new normal for your prioritization of time that includes time for selfless service.
8. Take care of yourself.
Remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup—depleting ourselves of energy inhibits our ability to help others. Make sure you are leaving time for true self-nourishment. Identify and reduce or eliminate any activities that may seem relaxing but are actually increasing your stress (like scrolling through social media or mindlessly watching television). It’s important to remain committed to the practices that keep you grounded and connected to your true, unchanging self—whether it’s a spiritual practice, meditation, a sport, a walk in nature, or something else that speaks to your heart.
Remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup—depleting ourselves of energy inhibits our ability to help others.
9. Remember the power of positive energy, meditation, and prayer.
Prayer and meditation are proactive activities that can strengthen you, inspire you, and keep you peaceful in the midst of adversity. The next time fears or worries arise, flood them with love, presence, and compassion. Remember, light always overcomes darkness in the end. Always.
So…do you accept the challenge? Will you join me in not complaining about things that you aren’t doing something about? Who else is going to do this essential work? Look around you. Look in the mirror: It’s us. We CAN make a difference. We ARE making a difference.
Let’s support each other in making this world the best that it can be. This is not an ideological concept. The world is changed by those people who can feel the suffering, and then show up to take action.
Jude Asante, CEO of YouSort World Company Limited
info@yousortworld.com
+233505135069