Chapter 1

What can you do to change things?

“If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.” 

The Dalai Lama

Let’s be honest, there are a lot of problems in the world. 

Sometimes it can feel overwhelming. How can I, one individual, possibly make a difference?

Well, the good news is that you can. We all have the potential to change the world for the better – beginning with making small changes to our daily lives. We can start by taking time to learn and reflect on our own actions and conditioning, and considering how we treat others.

From that point of understanding, we can work out what we want to change about the world and take action to do it. 

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” 

Margaret Mead, Anthropologist

Just like the mosquito in the Dalai Lama’s quote, each individual person has the potential to make a big impact. 

But when we come together with other people, the potential for change is even greater. That’s when we can build movements and transform society. History is full of examples of collaboration and collective action, where groups fought for the rights we now take for granted – from voting to sick pay. 

To learn how to take collective action, go to chapter 3

To build your own individual power, explore the next articles

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