| MAKING A DIFFERENCE |
| Written by Peter Wairegi |
 Move From Success to SignificanceI probably will not write about any facts that you haven't already heard before. Making a difference is sometimes loosely regarded as setting an example and giving back. By understanding the many ways one can make a difference then we can determine how to evaluate and improve our success. Words such as mentoring, coaching, teaching and responsibility all signify some level of significance. This is possible and can be accomplished by providing opportunities for minority professionals to give back, and recognize the impact one can have in a young person's life by mentoring or being a role model. The Bible eloquently revealed that "The Victory is not given to the swift but to the one that endures - Therefore you must be determined not to quit," Never give up without a fight," my mother would say. "Be a teacher". It is knowledge that teaches us that, having information is only half the battle, knowing what to do with that information (taking action) is key to your success. In my opinion, we can improve the odds of making a difference in other peoples lives by giving our time, talent, vision and leading by example. It is true that kids learn by observing their parents. So we must set the right example and be mindful of our actions. My older brother Godfrey once told me that "In every meaningful relationship, we are either learning or teaching" How true, as we can see from the many truths I have examined in this piece. We all have the propensity to make a difference and often we don't go to the extra mile, we do just the bare minimum. This will not yield a lasting impact on those you hope to impact. Empowering our youth is another sure way to set a successful path. Providing resources and feedback allow one to sustain a productive interaction. If you ask a group of people to define what success means to them, you will get a varying answer depending on their needs and situation. Some will say, money, a good education a nice car or home, happy marriage but truly speaking your success is only relevant to the level of your desire to achieve high level of self actualization. Then why is significance more desired. Significance demands that you take the focus off your own pursuits, accomplishments, and possessions, and identify ways in which you can leverage your success for the good of others. But above all it is said that if you leave this world a better place than you found it, then you have enriched others by leaving a lasting legacy through sharing your gift with the world. While we should be proud of our accomplishments in the corporate arena and take time to celebrate our success, let us not stop at just being successful. But I challenge you to take your success and transfer it into significance. Strive to leave a lasting legacy that will help the next generation inherit our collective experiences and in turn, achieve and accomplish even more. Then we can truly say that we have moved from success to significance. I would also add that this what makes one a hero. A hero for the purpose of this piece is some one who uses their time, money and skills to help others or on a larger scale helps many people through their bravery and service. I will leave you with one of my mother's favorite quotes, "It is not what you say that matters but what you do." Another way to put this is, "Your action speaks louder than your words." So stand and be counted - make a difference and (have purpose) demonstrate significance and your reward will be prosperous generations. This would be a great way to start the New Year. Mzee Peter Wairegi Publisher and CEO |
