We may never know how far our words or actions, or even our thoughts have reached – the ripple effect – says psychologist and author MARGARET LAMBERT in her latest column.
Our encounters, whether they consist of thoughts, words or deeds, go far beyond the people with whom we are directly communicating or thinking about.
A great example of this is the recent US presidential election.
Even though all of the rhetoric by the candidates was directed to the American citizens in order to gain votes, the entire world was affected.
Beyond the election, dissatisfaction, fear and anxiety have emerged – again, not only for the American people, but for people in every country in the world.
The ripple effect of people’s actions and words, as we know, has been far reaching.
It is no different in our own lives, with the effects that rhetoric, conversations, thoughts and actions have on those people connected to us, and even to those people not connected to us.
Even though we may not be broadcasting to the whole country, as per the US presidential nominees, there are still networks of people with whom we interact, who in turn interact with other networks.
How we have related to people is likely to affect not only how they feel, but also how they then relate to others.
A simple smile to individuals may make their day by uplifting their mood, boosting feelings of self-worth and connectedness.
With elevated feelings of goodness, people are more inclined to greet people respectfully and positively.
On the flip side, when people feel depressed, anxious, angry and stressed they are more likely to treat others with anger and impatience.
It is important to ask the question: What sort of world do we wish to create?
In response, I quote the words of Gandhi: “We must be the change that we wish to see in the world.”
The world is in need of much love, and this can only be generated by us.
Let’s do our bit to increase love in our world by being more mindful of the ripple effects of our actions, words and thoughts.
Until next time …
