Disruptive Change...

‘Change the world’ they say… ‘Make a difference’ they say……sometimes I feel like these statements have been overused so that it feels like they can never be a reality.

Despite the apathy that accompanies those words, we need something that can disrupt the status quo enough to see change happen in our world. Disruptive change!!

Disruptive was a word that appeared regularly on my school report card but not in a positive way!

The dictionary defines ‘disruptive’ as ‘causing difficulties that interrupt something or prevent it from continuing’ or ‘original and new in a way that causes change’.

Every day we make a contribution to the world we live in - what that contribution will be is up to us. Will we continue with the status quo, taking care of me and mine and surviving each day, hoping that tomorrow is a little better? Or will we make an intentional effort to be the change we hope will become reality?

A reality where each person is valued and respected regardless of race, religion, social status or political views and options. A reality where we help those who are facing challenging situations and celebrate achievements with humility and genuine good wishes.

But what does ‘disruptive change’ look like? What can we do that is ‘original and new in a way that causes change’?

Every time you smile and thank the checkout operator, you are making change. Every time you make an ethical decision in the boardroom, you are making change. Every time you make a decision to do the right thing rather than the most lucrative thing, you are making change. Every time you give your undivided attention to the person in front of you, you are making change. Every time you turn off mobile devices to spend time with your family, you are making change. Every dollar you give to support organisations serving others, you are making change!

All of a sudden the statement ‘Change the world’ feels more attainable!

My decision to work in fundraising has always been anchored in my desire to serve people and bring hope to those in hopeless situations. I have been honoured to work for some incredible organisations and inspiring leaders but it takes ALL OF US making choices every day to ‘change our world’ together!

THANK YOU for valuing and respecting people even when you don’t agree with their choices or opinions. THANK YOU for making decisions that seem so inconsequential but give others courage to follow your example. THANK YOU for investing your hard earned money to make sure someone in need is cared for. THANK YOU for changing the world, one opportunity at a time!