HOW TO: Change the World two Words at a Time #YOUMATTER

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Originally, this post was intended to be a one man show that features our latest So Genius Award winner, thus kicking off a new weekly segment. No need to worry, though, as we’ll still unveil Jure Klepic’s So G Award; but there’s a movement going on that’s bigger than any one person. Jure epitomizes this mission so deeply, that I actually thought he started project. As it turns out, however, someone else gave birth to the two words that are helping to change the world – YOU MATTER.

WE MATTER

When was the last time someone said that you mattered? For many, it’s been far too long. Some may not even remember the last time. However, If you are friends with Angela Maiers, creator of the you matter project, it’s rare that a day goes by without her reminding you of how important you really are. Need some inspiration to fuel your potential for the upcoming week? Please watch Angela’s AMAZING Ted Talk to get your fix. Really, this isn’t just about words… it’s a message that can change the way you look at the world.

THE MORE YOU GIVE

It’s human nature to want to belong, to feel appreciated for what you do. This is a two way street, my friends. Dan Gilbert, a successful Midwest businessman, once told me his key to success. “The more you give the more you get” is the mantra he lives by. That, in itself, is not a new concept but most people seemingly have it bassackwards. Many first wait for someone to help them before they help someone else. Some expect an affirmation of their own contributions before they appreciate the things people do for them. I’m sorry to inform those people that YOU HAVE IT WRONG. Angela has laid the groundwork, but it’s up to us to set aside the me-first attitude that prevails in our society and start paying it forward. So, your mission for the rest of today and through the weekend is find a way to acknowledge the people that make a difference in your life. When enough of us buy into this philosophy, we really will change the world.

SO GENIUS AWARD: DIFFERENCE MAKER

Jure is a difference maker

I sure hope Jure doesn’t mind getting buried at the end of this post. Actually, nevermind, I know he won’t care because he is more concerned with others than himself. I remember my first interaction with Jure, it was shortly after the first time that I retweeted him when he didn’t just thank me, but actually asked how my day was. While this probably shouldn’t have been so astonishing, it was on a few different levels. I had been on Twitter for maybe four months and it was the first time that someone I didn’t know actually cared enough to ask about me. It says a lot about someone’s character when they ask about you for no ot than to acknowledge you. Initially, I thought jure just had a thing for superheroes, but it so happens that he lets EVERYONE know that they matter. He is a true difference maker; and for that, he deserves our praise. Now it’s our turn to tell Jure how much we love him by leaving a shoutout below.