We are told so often to think about the big picture, that I started to wonder, are we forgetting about the smaller picture? The one that directly affects our daily lives? If we have an open mind to think “smaller”, “closer”, and “more local”, can we create a bigger impact? Let’s take a step back.. or maybe, a step closer.
Every day, we are sorting through tons of media and information. It’s not easy to take a break and look around at our personal present and reality. We are taken out of the moment and thrown into something much larger than ourselves. We become so overwhelmed that we feel as though we can’t make an impact because we feel so tiny compared to the “big picture” (or at least I do).
This is where it’s okay to “think small”. If we focus our energy on the local level, rather than worrying about the “big” picture that we are so often presented, we can affect great change in ways that often surprise us.
This "small" thought is what lead me to TOWN Mag. TOWN’s mission is to focus on our own small community, our roots, and our public high school in Watertown, CT. We can connect and strengthen the community by using this platform to share stories and inspire young adults who will someday be the ones creating change.
Here are some ways you yourself can improve the Watertown community - or whichever place you now call home.
Create Jobs - Do you own a business in town and could use some help? Create a job. Do you have skills and knowledge a high school or young adult could benefit from? Create an internship. Empower young people to succeed and make your business or idea stronger.
Shop Small - You’ve heard this so often, but it really is true. Stay away from these big chain stores and find what you are looking for in smaller establishments. By supporting the local economy and community, it will thrive. Buy a gift from those adorable shops downtown. Eat out on Main Street. The more money we put into our community, the better it will be.
Bring People Together - Plan a town-wide concert, makers-faire, or festival. Start an annual block party with your neighbors. Create a traditional Thursday night pot-luck and have friends and family come over to eat a delish meal. There doesn’t need to be a reason for celebration - these are the things that make us human and feed our souls.
Help Out - Make it a goal to help someone out or volunteer in town. Hang out with older townies who need some company or volunteer to babysit younger townies when a friend needs a hand. Use your skills and help with photography for a non-profit. Adopt a rescue dog. There are so many ways to lend a hand and brighten a day.
Be Kind - I know, I know, I'm a little bit cliche when it comes to these. But, we are all in this together. Be nice to your neighbors, your friends, your enemies, your boss, your employees, your kids, your dog, your neighbor, your cranky friend, your teacher, that guy who walks by your house every morning. At the end of the day, it’s the thing that matters most.
Are you already making big impact by "thinking smaller”? Share your story with TOWN.