In 2020, we are in need of a revamp. We need to revamp the way we approach cultural and
political conversations. We need to revamp how we use our resources. We need to revamp how
we speak and listen to others. And we need to revamp our personal identities.
To put it frankly, the game has changed, and it’s complexity is rising daily. A non-violent and
strategic approach to drive measurable progress in a modern era seeped in technology and
information that flows instantaneously is a complex undertaking. Three facets, of which are
based upon societal structural awareness, group dynamics, and individual awareness; are
essential to building upon our existing successes. The almighty dollar, our collective emotional
intelligence and self-authenticity are at the center of positive progression in the American
educational, cultural and sociopolitical landscape. Let us explore.
First off, money is at the root of most motivation in a capitalist society. It is at the center of power
shifts and drives decisions. Money equals food, water, shelter, comfort and safety. If any
movement wants to get serious about making a lasting change, considerable resources must be
gathered and dispersed to change laws, policies and systematic rules. For example, our nation’s
for-profit prison systems have contributed to the monumental and disgusting prison population
growth in the United States. For-profit prisons and their suppliers use money to lobby for
government sponsored aid to perpetuate their own business models. Which are based upon a
government funded stipend per prisoner (See Investopedia – The Business Model of Private
Prisons – For more information). In other words, and very disturbingly, the larger the stream of
inmates, the larger their corporate profits. This is an example of how money drives motivation,
and how money influences others (Such as Congress) to make decisions on a causes behalf.
The charge I make to myself, and to us all, is to turn our resources into a conglomerate of funds
that increases a stream of people into community colleges, universities, and skilled trades rather
than into prisons. More education and income, less stripped away freedom and dignity.
Next, an individual’s emotional intelligence drives their ability to converse with others in a
reciprocal, civil and uplifting manner. By which is the most efficient method to promote
non-violent positive growth. And of similar importance, to be an active and contributing member
of the workforce, one must also control their emotions in a manner that is conducive to the
expected norms of their work environment. Check out our article on productive conversation and
confrontation to deep-dive this subject (https://30milenation.com/productive-conversation-and-confrontation/).
And lastly, self-authenticity allows for consistency and peace of mind in one’s life. Honest and
consistent communication creates a simple foundation for increased understanding. Increased
understanding makes room for increased cooperation and shared purpose. Helping people
become self-reliant is at the center of my purpose, what about yours? That is something you
must look inward to unearth, and it is something that will be different from each other reader of
this article, embrace that.
ACTION REQUEST:
Understand what makes things happen in our society. Work on what you can do to exude a
radiant and full-figured emotional intelligence. Your example will disperse and be a force for the
greater good. Lastly, act authentically and simplify your purpose. Your authentic self knows very
little, just like the rest of us. Stay small, stay humble and cherish each incremental improvement.
Someone or something along the way will reveal your overarching mission.