How to Make A
Difference
© 1996 and 2001 by Dr. Dorri Jacobs
If you want to make a difference, but don't know how, here are several
ideas:
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Work politically to insure that government take a more active role in
addressing these problems.
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If you're a decision-maker, ask "What's the smartest way to do business?"
suggests Dr. Karen Christensen, Alfred P. Sloan Foundation program officer.
James Ellis, Business Week senior editor, proposes that different
policies and procedures for our new, diverse labor force be considered.
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Make exploring alternatives to downsizing a priority. Sara Horowitz,
Working Today Executive Director, suggests, "Let's start to look at
pro-active ways that allow firms to keep jobs. Firms in other countries
using a different approach could serve as role models."
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Continue the dialogue. Denial of pain prolongs it. This is the perfect
time to acknowledge what is happening and discuss it. Although we need practical
strategies, dissatisfaction with the status quo can be a powerful force.
By sharing our feelings, vision, values, spirituality, and unique ways of
overcoming obstacles, we will start to channel this energy in a positive
direction. We can put ourselves on a path of promise for the future and become
change agents for the social transformation presently occurring.
This is an exciting time. Miraculously, something's already in motion.
Even in the midst of deep discouragement, people are regrouping. Unwilling
to play the same game, they seek authenticity. Following a passion has become
a priority. A collective consciousness is growing. How are you going to be
involved? Christensen, director of Sloan's Work-Family Research Program,
says, "Most American businesses aren't long-sighted. But it really makes
bottom line sense for firms to understand and meet the needs of their
employees."
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