Bad things happen.  They are impossible to avoid at all times. But, when bad things happen, particularly in government, the nation, and the world, we can feel helpless, powerless, or apathetic.  We get depressed, hopeless, and at worst desperate, which can lead to violence.

What’s the alternative?

In her farewell email to supporters after losing the 2016 Presidential election Hillary Clinton wrote:

Our constitutional democracy demands our participation, not just every four years, but all the time. So let’s do all we can to keep advancing the causes and values we all hold dear: making our economy work for everyone, not just those at the top; protecting our country and protecting our planet; and breaking down all the barriers that hold anyone back from achieving their dreams.

Instead of getting mad, get effective. Find a way to participate. It doesn’t have to be expensive. It will take some time — perhaps just minutes to make an online donation to a cause of your choice.  It may take some learning – how to have a one-line come back to an uninformed comment.

Woody Allen is attributed with the saying:

Eighty percent of success is just showing up.

If you’re like me, you’ve spent many years thinking showing up was good enough. It’s why I’ve been a regular voter — my definition of showing up. Although better than not voting, I now know better: Eighty percent isn’t good enough. It’s the extra 20% that counts.

The Pareto Principle has long held that value of the vital few.  In sales, it translates to 20% of your customers create 80% of your revenue. Little Hinges is dedicated to helping me and others find our 20 percents.  I hope you’ll join me, contribute content, add ideas, share posts, and help us all discover ways to do more than just show up.

~ Rhona Bronson