The Power of Perspective
I want to reflect on a quote that has followed me throughout my life: “Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing, there is a field. I’ll meet you there.” – Rumi
I first discovered this quote when I was young, and it has shaped the way I see the world. In today’s society, where everything feels so polarized, we are quick to judge people based on their opinions and perspectives. Too often, we misinterpret and categorize others without truly listening. I believe in the importance of understanding—really hearing each other out, even when we don’t agree.
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Failures as Redirections
Looking back, one of the best decisions I ever made was pursuing a path that, at first, didn’t seem to work out. Studying medicine didn’t turn out as planned, but in hindsight, it was a blessing. Closed doors often lead us to where we truly belong. Sometimes, what we perceive as failure is actually redirection toward something even better.
Avoiding Judgment in Activism
This lesson applies deeply to activism, especially in climate change discussions. People are often labeled as “good” or “bad” based on their level of involvement. But real progress happens when we stop judging and start engaging—understanding different perspectives and communicating in ways that truly resonate.
Building a Community for Change
On a personal level, I run an Instagram account that started when I got a full-time offer from the European Commission. It has grown into a community of nearly 30,000 people, focused on career tips, policy insights, and making complex topics like energy and climate more accessible. One of the most common messages I get is: “I don’t have a public policy background—can I still apply?” My answer is always yes. The EU, and policymaking in general, need diverse voices. The belief that “I don’t belong here” is a myth we need to break.
The Butterfly Effect: Small Actions, Big Impact
Lastly, I want to talk about the Butterfly Effect—the idea that small actions can lead to big changes. We often think we need to save the world, but real change starts with the people around us. Some of the best compliments I’ve received are from people saying, “I never thought highly of the EU, but you changed my perspective,” or “Because of you, I applied for a sustainability role and got the job.” These moments remind me that even small nudges—like a single post or conversation—can completely change someone’s path.
So don’t underestimate your influence. Changing the world starts with changing your environment. Sometimes, the smallest actions have the biggest impact.
