The Power of One

By Scott Westerman
“The power of one man or one woman doing the right thing for the right reason, and at the right time, is the greatest influence in our society.” – Jack Kemp

There are moments when you may feel like your contribution to the world is insignificant. This is especially true when fear, temporary failure or a series of setbacks bang away at your attitude.

In those moments, remember the Power of One.

Elton Mayo wrote, “One friend, one person who is truly understanding, who takes the trouble to listen to us as we consider our problems, can change our whole outlook on the work.”

Be that person.

Margaret Mead said, “Never underestimate the power of a small group of people to change the world. In fact, it is the only way it ever has.” Each of those small groups had one person who inspired them.

Be that person.

On my office wall is a picture of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with his quote, “Almost always, the creative dedicated minority has made the world better.” Every generation thirsts for a person with Dr. King’s, love, dedication, intellect and tenacity.

Be that person.

This Stephen Covey nugget always re-energizes me: “.. one person can be a change catalyst, a ‘transformer’ in any situation, any organization. Such an individual is yeast that can leaven an entire loaf.”

Be that person.

One person can trigger a million thoughts.
One person can help you sing the song in your heart when you have forgotten the words.
One person can be the teacher who fires imaginations and awakens genius.
One dedicated person is worth a hundred who are only interested.
One person can envision a bridge, an aircraft, a poem, an idea, an atom.
One person can lead a team, a project, a scout troop, a company, a university, a movement.
One person who changes her attitude, can influence the attitudes of all around her.
One person who treats another as the person he might become will help him become so.
One person who renders great service inevitably ensures greatness for themselves.

Why not you? Why not now?

You have already changed at least one person’s life for the better.
You have already done at least one thing exceptionally well.
You are already admired by someone.
You have an idea floating around in your head right now that could change the world.

Whatever your do, wherever you are, you can harness The Power of One.

Don’t expect to find life worth living; make it that way.