Group or Team Power : How it can change the world...

"Group Power is essential for success and we should not underestimate what it can do hence, it can make or break something. We have to be responsible by using this power carefully and for good intentions only"




In my previous posts, I have discussed about different sources of power and given examples of some prominent people who possess such powers and how they use it to make social impact and global influence. However, I have not included one source of power that is very important nowadays--the group or team Power.

I will cite an example on how we use group power and its effect to mankind and the world. This is very timely since I am referring to the global environmental campaign of the "New7Wonders of Nature" which is the organization founded by Bernard Weber of Switzerland. The global campaign started on 2007 after the declaration of the "New7Wonders of The World" on 7-7-7 or July 7, 2007. After 4 years, another campaign on the title of "New7Wonders of Nature" has been participated by people worldwide and on 11-11-11 or November 11, 2011 - the 7 provisional list was named by the organization's founder himself.

I was able to watch the video of the announcement he made and I am glad that Puerto Princesa Underground River made it to the list. Although it is provisional and unofficial, still it has a good chance of making it to the official list of the "New7Wonders of Nature".

THE CAMPAIGNS' GLOBAL IMPACT

The campaign started from a simple goal of a man named Bernard Weber of Switzerland. He aims to create a global memory by garnering participation of people worldwide. He founded the organization in 2001 which is based on the same principle with the "Seven ancient wonders of the world". That list of seven wonders was attributed to Philon of ancient Greece.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PHILON OF GREECE AND WEBER OF SWITZERLAND

I have asked this question to myself if what is the difference between the two great man and I have come up with the realization that Philon's, "Seven Wonders of Ancient World" was chosen and declared only by himself since he was powerful during his time. Weber, founded the "New7Wonders of the World & Nature" was chosen and participated by people globally. Thinking of what is the difference comes with the "Group Power" as the answer.

GROUP POWER LEADS TO SUCCESS

If we try to analyze, the campaign will not become successful only for the reason that Weber is powerful. Certainly, he has got some sources of his power like, power of education and expertise, being expert in the field of film making. He has the power of position being the founder of the said organization. He has power of Social intelligence through his ability to attract millions of followers in his campaign. He has Physical Power as he shows energetic personality.

He also got international fame and recognition through the Power of Media by using the Power of Nature and the Group power through the active participation of his supporters and followers. He almost got every sources of power and the good thing is that he use it wisely for a good cause.

WHAT THE PHILIPPINES HAS TO OFFER

Philippines is a bio-diverse archipelago of 7,107 islands and over a thousand of these islands can be found in Palawan. Dubbed as "The Last Frontier" - it is one of the largest island province in the country and one of the cleanest and safest place in the archipelago.

Once again we have proven that we have something to share to the rest of the world. Through unity, we have made it to put the Puerto Princesa Underground River in the global map to be one of the best ecological tourist destination in the world.

THE PUERTO PRINCESA UNDERGROUND RIVER

It is reputed as the longest navigable subterranean river in the world which approximately is 8 kilometers long--is a magnificent ecological spot with diverse ecosystem. Now that it is on its way to the official declaration as "New7Wonders of Nature", it is expected to boost the tourism industry of the country considering the flocks of tourist who will visit the place. As of 2009, it was reported already by the local government of Puerto Princesa City that the tourism increased by 50 percent--an evidence that the "New7Wonders of Nature" campaign is an effective means of boosting tourism industry.

THE ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN

Now that the Puerto Princesa Underground River is gaining global recognition and fame, there are some things that should be taken into consideration--the effect of environmental progress.

Development of the the city of Puerto Princesa is ongoing since many tourists arrived in the city recently. I have watched a documentary film about Puerto Princesa City Mayor, Edward Hagedorn who invested for the building of infrastructure projects that are of truly world-class in preparation for the big blessing which is the coming of tourist from other parts of the world.

We just hope that the place will not be fully commercialized just like other tourist destination in the country where they sacrificed the environment for the massive income. Along with progress comes possible environmental issues that may arise such as the waste management, cutting of trees, pollution, etc.

Palawan is truly a paradise and deserves to preserve its beauty and charm so the next generation will be able to love and appreciate it. It is not only for the Filipinos but also for the people of the world. We can not control development but we can do our share by protecting it and criticizing the environmental neglect and abuse.

Group Power is essential for success and we should not underestimate what it can do hence, it can make or break something. We have to be responsible by using this power carefully and for good intentions only. I always believe in the saying, "In unity there is strength" and that is applicable to the present-day scenario, that to be on the top, we need people to support us with our ideals and aspirations, people who will push us to our limits and people to will help us to raise the bar to become what we are meant to be.



© 2012 Del Cusay

The Power of Nature

"We can make a difference by simple gestures of concern for nature and supporting various environmental causes. Our nature is a great source of power, so we have to care for it and what it has to offer. It is also for the benefit of the future generation to experience the beauty of our nature and its wonders."


Nature has caused a lot of damage and destruction in various ways. These include natural or man-made calamities such as typhoons, earthquakes, tornadoes, floods, droughts, landslides, etc. This causes severe damage that we are not in control of; the so-called "force majeure" literally means "greater force, " an unforeseen event beyond human control. Sometimes these destructive forces of nature damage properties and cause people to lose valuable possessions and even loved ones.

Every year, many countries suffer from different natural calamities and worst catastrophes that affect the lives of millions of people. Here in the Philippines, we are known to be one of the world's most calamity-prone countries, which is true. Filipinos have been the victim of these greater forces of nature, and the situation worsens yearly.

THE ISSUE OF CLIMATE CHANGE

Recently, scientists have made an in-depth study of global warming in relation to climate change. The analysis is critical so we will know the extent of damage to earth mankind has caused. A great debate is going on regarding this topic as it draws massive global environmental concerns, especially the environmentalist.

ENVIRONMENTAL NEGLECT

We have an outstanding obligation to our environment. We all can preserve and protect our nature, and most people have done their part and will continue to do so as part of their environmental contribution and legacy. 

However, some people have been careless and greedy and have the power to destroy nature. Some people simply underestimate nature's ability to gain financial control. Illegal logging and mining are destructive environmental activities still being practiced today. If only they knew of such activities' adverse effects, they might have saved many lives.

GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL CAMPAIGN

A visionary man named Bernard Weber started an organization that aims to promote environmental preservation and protection. He is the founder and President of the "New7Wonders of Nature". The objective of the said organization is to identify and promote natural wonders that stand out and could be world-class tourist destinations. The founder wants us to realize nature's importance and appreciate its wonders and beauty.

The power of Social Media has been utilized for this global campaign to choose the next 7 wonders of nature among hundreds of participant countries who joined. People can participate in this campaign by voting online through the organization's website.  You will have to choose the top 7 natural wonders of choice to be able to vote and will receive a confirmation email to let you know that your vote has been counted.

THE PUERTO PRINCESA UNDERGROUND RIVER

Luckily, through people's support, our underground river has been chosen and included in the top 28 finalists and the top 10. The big announcement of the "New7Wonders" will be on 11th November 2011 or 11-11-11. I am fortunate to have been part of this campaign by online voting and encouraging others to do the same to show their support. Indeed, it was an overwhelming response from them, and they have shown active participation by sharing the information with their friends.

I have ordered a personalized certificate from the "New7Wonders" website, which shows my top choice, the Puerto Princesa Underground River. This serves as my remembrance for joining this global environmental awareness, protection, and tourism campaign. This is a historical event, and I am grateful to have participated in and supported this campaign.

I am hopeful that our candidate will be on the official list of the "New7Wonders of Nature" and that we will continue to have environmental awareness in protecting and preserving the wonders of nature. 

We can make a difference through simple gestures of concern for nature and supporting various environmental causes. Our nature is an excellent power source, so we must care for it and what it offers. It is also for the benefit of the future generation to experience the beauty of nature and its wonders.

© 2011 Del Cusay

The Nature and Sources of Power

"Power is universal and can be achieved externally or internally. We must be able to acknowledge and develop our sources of power for us to achieve lasting success and fulfillment. However, we must be responsible for our powers and use them wisely. Power can be temporary or permanent, inherent or acquired, and can either make or break."

Recently we have discussed an interesting topic about the sources of human power. It was a good discussion, and I have learned so many insightful ideas that could be a great source of wisdom through the development of human potential. As human beings, sometimes we are not fully aware that there are inherent powers within us. This kind of power is valuable and could be enhanced to achieve lasting success - we call it Inner Power.

On the contrary, human power is never permanent; hence it could be a temporary possession. For instance, Political power is always temporary if an elected official has sworn to serve for a specified term. A person may be in the highest possible rank or position, but the time will come for his power to end. However, there may be some exceptions when a leader, for instance, is too greedy for power and has been practicing dictatorial leadership for a few decades. Just like the fate of the former Libyan President is an example that no matter how long you are in a particular position or whether you are powerful enough to conquer everything, power will lose its value if it is misused.

Power of Position is good to have only if used for the common good and not for self-interest only. Are you holding a particular position? How big is your responsibility? Does it have a specific term of office? Well, some people love to be in a position of power which comes with the ability to be in control and have more significant influence. Think of the most influential people in terms of impact on the world; who come to your top list?

Recently, Forbes magazine published its annual list of the world's most influential people for 2011. Among the list comes President Obama - the US President being on the top. He has great political power and global influence, leading the world's most powerful economy. Bill Gates, Microsoft's founder and Chairman is in the 5th rank. He is now known to be the most outstanding living philanthropist who co-founded the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The couple donated billions of dollars to other foundations and supported the funding of global health issues. Pope Benedict - the head of the Roman Catholic Church, is in the 7th rank. The Pope has been influential regarding the morality and spirituality of their followers. Surprisingly, the founder of the most popular social network: Facebook, is the youngest on the list and comes in the top 9. Mark Zuckerberg changes the way people communicate. His ultimate goal is to make the world connected through the power of social media, which he co-founded in 2004 in a Harvard dormitory. Having more than 700 million members worldwide, Facebook has attained a certain degree of success and influence that changed global communication. Zuckerberg uses the power of media and has gained fame and prestige globally. Oprah is also one of the most respected and successful media personalities today. She has gained fortune through her media power which she also uses for doing philanthropic work; the reason why she is so magnetic and loved by her followers.

Another source of power is your lineage. Do you belong to a powerful clan? Do you carry a family name that is well known because of its societal influence? Then, you have got the power of lineage. For instance, the royal family is very well-known and adored by the people, and they possess power through the inheritance of the throne. At the same time, those in a political dynasty are so powerful that nobody can defeat them in the position.

Physical power is also one of the most important things. It is about your ability to execute your valuable ideas. If we have the energy to do great things, we will have more achievements. However, no matter how brilliant and rich a person may be, if he is not in good health, he may not be able to achieve lasting fulfillment. Take the case of Steve Jobs as an example. When Steve was living, he was among the top global and respected leaders and one of the most influential people, but his money did not save his life. He became physically weak, so he gave up his position since he could not do the expected responsibility. The lesson is that we should never take our health for granted: the source of physical power. We do not have to be weak because we have a lot of potential to achieve something in life. The saying, "health is wealth," is true and powerful.

How we deal with or communicate with people is another power source. The power of social intelligence is an advantage to those who learned and mastered the art of personal magnetism. People are charismatic and magnetic because of their personalities and ability to deal with people effectively. They have made a lot of admirers and followers and gained respect and loyalty.

Financial power is another thing that most people aspire to. Money is indeed an essential tool for survival, and it is precious. One common thing about the most influential people in their financial power. They can give away their money to those who need it. Bill Gates and his friend Warren Buffet tried to encourage their fellow billionaires to share their massive wealth with the less fortunate. They are good examples of leaders who use financial power to make a difference.

Do you have any of the sources of power mentioned? If none, then do underestimate the power of your expertise and education. Your knowledge and wisdom are so powerful that they can lead to the sources of energy mentioned earlier and can be interrelated with other authorities. For instance, Knowledge Professionals and experts in their field have gained social intelligence through constant communication with people. They got the attention of the media, who later advertised their expertise to the people. And lastly, they have achieved the power of position and have made a fortune.

Power is universal and can be achieved externally or internally. We must be able to acknowledge and develop our sources of energy for us to achieve lasting success and fulfillment. However, we must be responsible for our powers and use them wisely. Power can be temporary or permanent, inherent or acquired, and can either make or break. We must remember that we are powerful in our own way only if we know ourselves better. As the saying goes, "great power comes with great responsibility."


© 2011 Del Cusay