Creating Ripples
Hello! It’s me, Seth. You may have seen me around the LC one or twice hehe. If not, then hi! I am glad to share this first interaction with you.
I want to take this opportunity to share an important concept I’ve learned in AIESEC that I still find relevant even today. It was introduced to me during my first ACAMP in 2017. It’s a concept that gave me a new perspective on my potential and capabilities — the Ripple Effect.
Having Exponential Impact
Most of you are familiar by now with what’s known as The Ripple Effect. If not, then basically it’s when an object is dropped into a puddle of water and creates a ripple that expands and affects its surroundings exponentially — the same can be said with wanting to create an impact in your life.
Your life is the puddle, the actions and decisions you make are the objects dropped into the water, and the ripples show the impact that it leaves.
Small Steps, Big Impacts
Having first heard about this, it gave me a huge boost in my confidence and changed the way I saw myself. I realized that I had more potential than I thought, and this was what pushed me to reach for things outside my comfort zone — especially when it seemed scary and unfamiliar. I saw it as a benefactor. Being an introverted newie (at least at the time) this was what led me to initially joining exchange departments, which led to a significant amount of time spent with EPs, TNs, and other stakeholders. Ultimately, it led me wanting to share those fulfilling experiences with others people in this Local Committee. This was the start of my AIESEC journey.
Of course, all that was possible because I took those first few steps towards something that was — initially — frightening.
The Other Side of The Ripple Effect
Nearly 3 years later, and having seen this organization change and adapt to a multitude of circumstances, my perspective on The Ripple Effect also changed — I realized that it actually works as a double-edged sword. The Ripple Effect is not always going to work in your benefit. In fact, it works as a detractor, too.
It is a neutral concept. It is a multiplier of actions, and it will have its benefits and consequences.
Having that in mind, it made me realize how important it is to be mindful of any and all endeavors — especially within this organization where we strive to be better than yesterday. The decisions we make, the actions and goals we aim to pursue, no matter how big or small, are always going to leave an impact.
The question now is, what kind of impact do you want to leave?
