Can 1 person make a difference?
There exists the saying ‘One rotten (or bad) apple can spoil the barrel ‘. Basically this suggests that one single person with a negative influence can undermine or even ruin an entire team. However, does it work also the other way around? Can a single shiny (or good) apple save the barrel? Can a single person genuinely instigate positive change?
About that one rotten apple :
It’s really not that rare, this metaphorical "bad apple". Reflecting on it now, I can easily provide several examples I've seen throughout my career, each showing different degrees of negativity.
For example, I’ve observed how a single individual can completely disrupt a well-functioning team; leading to discontent among the team members and eroding gradually the team spirit. I have seen situations where a single individual separates a team into two distinct groups, creating a feeling of conflict instead of unity. I've observed people acting as seemingly unaware of the negative impact they create.
When I see this happening, typically I'm not the person to passively observe and stand by … Instead, at times, I've engaged, sometimes even trying to mediate. Because - some might label me as a bit naive - I just happen to believe in the inherent good intentions of people. And I believe that most interpersonal issues originate from misunderstandings, misalignment in goals, and differences in individual priorities and values, … I believe that rarely do people intentionally or purposeful disrupt a team; also not in the above examples. There are exceptions....
About those shiny apples :
Thankfully, I’ve also witnessed the opposite frequently! I’ve seen how one single individual can make a significant positive impact.
I’ve seen teams where one individual is the ‘glue’ that brings cohesion in a team. And how one person brings (back) energy to move forward and overcome obstacles. And how one person can make people ‘think’ differently, and reflect on what is needed to change, to improve. I’ve seen how one person can trigger to actions. I’ve also seen how one person becomes the ‘unappointed’ leader in a group; not by shouting the loudest, rather the opposite : by saying the right things at the right moment. I’ve seen how people change due to the influence of a single person, growing from a cautious introvert to becoming an inspiring leader.
The latter transformations are particularly enjoyable—energizing, encouraging, and inspiring!
When such a person is in a leadership position, the exponential impact of the power of one becomes evident, whether in a dramatic or encouraging manner. I firmly believe that there are more positive stories than otherwise, so let's concentrate on those and consider what each of us can contribute.
Looking back, reflecting on my own experiences, I’ve also become aware how one person can influence me. Sometimes, this awareness was immediate, and was I very conscious about the impact 'during the process of change'. At other times, it takes hindsight to fully comprehend the extent of the impact. It's good to be aware of this. And it's also a good practice to make sure to spend enough time with the positive people around you. Because there's some truth in the expression "you are who you hang out with'....
I mostly remember:
The power of 1 can be as powerful as that of a true superhero! As the saying goes, "may the force be with you" to be that person who makes a positive difference!
You may find following interesting read :
Comments