Many Steve Jobs’ tributes in the recent month have included eloquent speeches and list of accomplishments. My favorite was his simple comment:”I want to put a ding in the universe.”
Make a Ding, Make a Difference
There is a universal need to be recognized and heard and to have an impact. We all want to feel that our lives matter to someone, somewhere.
Most of us will not become household names or invent technologies that change the way the world communicates. But I related to the grander sentiment of affecting the universe which can still be accomplished in simple ways. Think of the pebble thrown into a pool of water. Small actions can have great effects.
Time for Self Reflection
The Steve Jobs’ comment got me thinking about my dings.
• Where have I affected how the world works or even how others enjoy their lives?
• Have I been a supported and valuable friend? Have I improved the lives of others?
• Do the many people I have managed in my various careers think of me as a role model when they manage others? Have I changed the arc of their careers or made them better at their careers?
Leading Women
LWP Janet and I talk about this issue in our own lives. Through The Leading Women Project we hope to affect the lives of many women beyond those we can immediately touch. Through political organizations and support of great NGOs we want to further our reach.
As a mother, you always know that by having children, you have permanently affected part of the world. LWP Janet and I are both immensely proud of our children, all six of them, who are already making their own dings.
Pick how you will leave a mark
Think of all the ways that you interface with other people. Are you good in your personal and professional roles? Will people remember you as the best boss, the most creative employee, true friend or the teacher who changed how they viewed themselves or the world? Are you someone who others will want to emulate? We are all capable of making a ding. How are you making a ding?
