"In Africa, there is a concept known as 'ubuntu' - the profound sense that we are human only through the humanity of others; that if we are to accomplish anything in this world, it will in equal measure be due to the work and achievement of others."
-Nelson Mandela
We achieve more when we work together, we work better when we feel supported, and we excel because we join forces in the name of a single cause. If you dig deep enough, teamwork is at the foundation of all success. Without the actions of team-oriented individuals, we wouldn't evolve our mindset to one of collaboration and synergy - a mindset that helps us all propel forward.
We can play an essential role in our community's success by contributing and getting involved. Does your local park need cleaning up? Is your food bank looking for some extra help? How about your senior center? Any amount of time you can dedicate is time well spent, and your service is always appreciated. This kind of selfless generosity strengthens the threads of our communities, pulling us together to alleviate some of the struggles we may be facing. Because we share the responsibility of our collective fate, it's imperative to be a part of this effort and make a difference in the community we choose to call home.
To fan the flame of service in your community, lead by example. You can provide some of the tools needed to build future developments by acting as a leader, laying down the building blocks for social awareness and social responsibility. If you hope to pave the way for positive change, you could join a local trade association or become part of a local committee. If you don't want to add a sense of permanence to your role, you could help clean up after an industry event or nominate one of your peers for an important board position. Industry support is a great way to have your voice heard and your ideas put into action. It will teach you how to work collaboratively, hearing everyone's opinions as equal for the sake of working towards a shared goal.
Cooperatives are another great way to get involved in your community while focusing on a subject that is near and dear to your heart. They teach us to remove the competitive nature we have with our peers and instead focus on how our shared knowledge can move us all up the ladder of success faster than we could scale it alone. In a cooperative environment, we learn how to collectively and constructively make decisions that benefit us all, even if we have to bend a little along the way. This creates a collaborative culture, one of giving, respect, and transparency. Cooperatives aid us in accomplishing greatness for ourselves by inspiring greatness in others. They show us that when you peel back the layers, we're all in this together, and we have been since the beginning of time.
However you choose to get involved, know that you are making a difference and contributing to something of great importance. If it weren't for those individuals in our community that give back, we would all stay stagnant and distant from each other, a downward spiral that leads to friction within a shared community. I challenge you to take the time to look into where you can add value to your community or industry. I challenge you to lend that helping hand and step up where you are needed. Your contributions are more than just actions; they are the backbone of your community's success. So get out there - make a difference. The world will thank you for it.