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How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference, Essay Example

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Malcolm Gladwell’s The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference endeavors to demonstrate how apparent changes happen in society in a manner akin to how epidemics spread: they have the structure of viruses which, in short, can become contagious. Gladwell identifies this structure in all social phenomena, from, as he notes in his introduction, fashion and cultural trends to crime rates.

In Chapter 1 of his work, Gladwell offers something to the effect of a typology of what he terms “epidemics”, that is, an understanding of how they function. Gladwell argues for a threefold schematic of the phenomenon comprised of what he terms “the Law of the Few”, “the Stickiness Factor” and “the Power of Context.” “The Law of the Few” indicates that such epidemics are identifiable as such because they are somehow outliers, that which is anomalous to the society in question. Hence, for a fashion trend to take on the form of a contagious epidemic, the trend must clearly originate from the margins: if not, it would already exist as a part of the mainstream, as an established norm, and would not have the structure of an epidemic. Simultaneously, stickiness is a crucial term. This means there has to be something inherently qualitatively compelling about the epidemic in question to make it “stick”, otherwise it would not become an epidemic which is determined by extent of influence. The power of context is thus a crucial factor which works on the epidemic from an exterior perspective: a trend therefore must also say something to its times, for it to emerge as a trend in a particular time period.

All these factors provide a compelling diagnosis of how “epidemics” function. With these concepts, Gladwell gives the reader an intriguing account of fundamental social structures and phenomena.

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Little Things Can Make A Big Difference by Michael

Michaelof Arlington's entry into Varsity Tutor's June 2019 scholarship contest

Little Things Can Make A Big Difference by Michael - June 2019 Scholarship Essay

Everyday, we perform tasks. These tasks can be big, like driving a car, or small, like picking up trash. Tasks are a daily part of life and they demand attention from us. As humans, it is essential to carry out these tasks because it has an impact on us and others around us. Whether it’s realized or not, how we look at these things and choose to execute them can make a huge difference. I have always performed tasks throughout my life. However, there have been some tasks that I neglected. I swayed them as irrelevant and it wasn’t until I learned a lesson from a well known teacher that my perspective changed. Rachel, a sub that would appear in many classrooms to take over teaching duties when teachers were absent, would typically present pieces of advice for us to think about. This particular lesson stuck with me and made me question myself on things I did. I remember that she told the class about making differences and starting out with small things. She had read a book that stressed how little things could change our lives and the world around us. One particular thing that stood out in the lesson she presented was making a bed. This served as a base to the lesson and it let me understand how a small task could have a huge impact. I knew that making up my bed showed organization, attention, and discipline. These traits were important in the real world and it left impressions on what people thought of me. By paying more attention to smaller tasks and taking time to do them properly, it would help make a big difference. Tasks that were small formed a chain, and depending on how each one was performed it led to a particular outcome. Rachel stressed that tasks that were done correctly could give us pride and promote encouragement in us to do bigger things. I am very glad that I had tuned into this lesson. The lesson that Rachel told me about impacted my education in a huge way. For instance, in math, I make sure to think about a problem and make sure that small operations such as division, multiplication, addition, and subtraction are correct. If I do this, then it boosts my chances of getting a problem correct. However, if one small task is neglected, then the entire answer is wrong. Depending on how many answers I get wrong, I know it impacts my grade which can be a good one or bad one. This is why I take the lesson I learned at heart, since it impacts my confidence and self-esteem. Whenever I pay attention and do small tasks in an organized manner, it encourages me to move on to bigger tasks and I have a sense of accomplishment. This lets me know that I can do things well and that I am a smart person. Despite how I might feel on big tests, keeping this at the back of my mind enables me to do better and feel more confident, by not letting results define who I am completely, but keeping in mind that I am a sum total of the details. Anxiety is lowered and I can think problems through without letting emotions hesitate me. Small tasks have given me a very unique angle to measure myself in life. Tasks are things that are carried out by all of us. Doing small tasks provides us with confidence and can be used as a way to measure ourselves. Also, these tasks help make a difference in others around us and can make potential changes. One by one, they can bring the results we want to see.

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The Power of Small Things: How Little Actions Can Make a Big Difference

In the grand scheme of life, it’s often the small things that have a significant impact. While it’s easy to overlook or dismiss the importance of these seemingly minor actions, they possess the power to add up and create meaningful change. In this article, we will explore the concept of how small things can make a big difference and how incorporating them into our lives can lead to personal growth, improved relationships, and positive societal impact.

The Power of Small Things: How Little Actions Can Make a Big Difference

1. Everyday Habits

Small things are often embedded in our daily habits. These habits, whether positive or negative, have a cumulative effect over time. By consciously choosing small positive actions, such as regular exercise, reading, or practicing gratitude, we can cultivate a healthier lifestyle and enhance our overall well-being.

2. Kindness and Empathy

Acts of kindness and empathy may seem insignificant on their own, but their impact can be profound. A simple smile, a thoughtful gesture, or a genuine word of encouragement has the potential to brighten someone’s day and foster a sense of connection and community. Collectively, these small acts can create a ripple effect, spreading positivity and compassion.

3. Personal Growth

Personal growth is often the result of consistent small steps taken over time. Learning new skills, reading a few pages each day, or setting small achievable goals contribute to our self-improvement. These small actions accumulate and pave the way for significant progress, unlocking our potential and expanding our horizons.

4. Relationships

Nurturing relationships requires consistent effort and attention. It’s the small things that build trust, deepen connections, and strengthen bonds. Acts of active listening, offering support, expressing appreciation, or showing up for loved ones during challenging times all contribute to the health and longevity of relationships.

5. Environmental Impact

When it comes to environmental sustainability, small actions can make a significant difference. Recycling, reducing single-use plastics, conserving energy, or choosing sustainable products may seem insignificant on their own. However, when multiplied across individuals and communities, these small choices have the potential to conserve resources, protect ecosystems, and create a more sustainable future.

6. Personal Reflection and Gratitude

Taking a few moments each day for personal reflection and expressing gratitude is a small practice that can shift our perspective and cultivate a positive mindset. By acknowledging the small joys, achievements, and blessings in our lives, we develop an attitude of gratitude that enhances our overall well-being and spreads positivity to those around us.

7. Social Impact

Small things can contribute to significant social impact. Engaging in conversations about important issues, supporting local businesses, volunteering, or advocating for positive change all play a part in creating a better society. Each small action contributes to a collective movement towards a more just, compassionate, and equitable world.

Never underestimate the power of small things. The small actions we take each day accumulate and shape our lives, relationships, and the world around us. By embracing everyday habits, practicing kindness and empathy, nurturing personal growth, fostering strong relationships, being environmentally conscious, reflecting with gratitude, and making a positive social impact, we can create a meaningful and purposeful life. Remember, it’s the small things that add up and ultimately make a big difference.

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Book Insights • 15 min read

The Power of Small: Why Little Things Make All the Difference

Linda kaplan thaler and robin koval.

By the Mind Tools Content Team

small things make big difference essay

Welcome to the latest episode of Book Insights from Mind Tools.

In today's podcast, we're looking at "The Power of Small," subtitled "Why Little Things Make All the Difference," by Linda Kaplan Thaler and Robin Koval.

When you think about the word small, what do you think of?

Tiny? Unimportant? Not worth your time?

Well, according to "The Power of Small," it's the little things that actually make all the difference in life. It's the little things that help us find our soul mates, get us that incredible promotion, and ultimately contribute to our overall sense of well-being.

And what kind of little things are we talking about here?

Little things like lending your co-worker a listening ear when she really needs it. Sending a thank-you note to your best client. Offering to run some copies off for your boss who's under a tight deadline.

These are small actions, sure. But the authors use "The Power of Small" to prove just how transformational these little details can be. As long as we pay attention to the right details, that is.

Together, the authors own and run The Kaplan Thaler Group, a public relations and marketing agency. They're also the authors of the bestseller, "The Power of Nice," and Robin Koval is a former guest on the Mind Tools Expert Interview podcast series.

So, wondering if this book is for you?

Well, we can honestly say that anyone can learn some powerful life lessons from "The Power of Small." This charming little book has the potential to change lives simply by teaching us how to slow down and pay attention to the little things.

If you feel as if your life has gotten swept up in the age of information overload, and you're longing to find ways to reconnect with the small moments in life, then you won't want to miss this book.

"The Power of Small" is broken into nine chapters, and each one covers a small aspect of life, from the importance of making polite conversation to taking baby steps to achieve your goals. The book is a very easy read, thanks to the true-life stories the authors use and their comfortable writing style. This is definitely a book that you'll have fun with.

So, keep listening to find out how to prove you care about quality, not quantity; why small talk is far from trivial; and why we should all behave more like little children.

The authors spend the first chapter telling a few stories about the power of small, and how it can really change lives. One is about a haircut, and we'd like to share that with you.

Picture a stereotypical computer programmer. Quiet. Smart. A real number cruncher.

This programmer was very good at his job, but he dreamed of working in the sales department at his company. Needless to say, IT and sales are two drastically different beasts.

The programmer, however, dreamed of sales. He loved the outgoing nature of the salespeople, and was excited by the thought of interacting with so many other people. But, the idea of even trying to change careers was completely intimidating. After all, he was just a reclusive programmer. How would he ever make it in sales?

One day, he decided he was going to make one small change. He was going to get a new haircut. But not just any haircut. He went to a leading stylist who was an expert in men's haircuts. This stylist prided herself on giving haircuts that really said something special about the person.

When the programmer left the salon, he felt like a new man. And that one, tiny action changed his life, by starting a chain of events he never could have predicted.

Because he now had a new image of himself, he went and bought new clothes. He started going to the gym. He quickly acquired more self-confidence. And he finally worked up the nerve to ask for a transfer to the sales department.

Almost effortlessly, he got it. Want to know what happened after that?

This programmer-turned-salesman turned out to be a genius in sales. He quickly became the best performer the department ever had. Before long, he was chief sales executive for the entire company.

And, it all started with a haircut.

Now, the authors state clearly that it wasn't the haircut itself that changed this man's life. But because he took one tiny step to do something different, his entire outlook changed. And that set off an incredible domino effect that changed his life.

That's the power of small.

Chapter two teaches us four simple truths about the world, and how paying attention to the small things can really transform our lives.

Our favorite truth was number four, A Little Goes A Long Way. Here, we get to read the story of Scott Fimple, a naval petty officer, whose life was transformed after he took a few minutes out of his day to steer a complete stranger to the right office in his building.

It was a small act that he didn't think twice about. And the authors point out that Mr Fimple could have easily done nothing. After all, the stranger was just a stranger to him.

But doing nothing in life means you're potentially closing the door on an opportunity. According to the authors, we should view every interaction we have as a potential open door to something greater and more magnificent. This means phone calls, emails, client meetings, and lunch with friends.

And what happened to Mr Fimple? That one act set off a chain of events that won him the highly coveted Navy Commendation Medal.

Imagine if he had just kept walking.

The authors give us three handy tips at the end of this chapter on how we can do small things to make a big impression. One of them is to make small impressions. If you bring a coffee or a muffin to work, then grab a few extra for your co-workers. Bring extra treats and baggies to the dog park for the owners who forgot theirs. Keep an extra umbrella in your office.

You never know how these little things might change your life.

The next chapter, on small talk, has some really inspiring stories. Here we learn how small talk has literally saved people's lives, from a family escaping Nazi Germany to a woman who was saved by the barista at her local coffee shop.

Yes, all from small talk.

The authors say here that many people consider small talk to be meaningless. It's a way to fill time, and nothing more.

But they make a powerful point when they say that small talk is where we learn the details of someone's life. It's where we learn if they like red or white wine, that they love skydiving, or that their son just started preschool.

Are these meaningless details? Well, no. These are the details that make up the human textures of our life, the texture that so many of us are longing for on a very personal level. After all, email, electronic chat, and texting are convenient. But, they lack the human flavor that we get from conversation.

If we neglect small talk and view it as unimportant, then all we're doing is cutting ourselves off from discovering the common ground we have with others. And, that's a lonely place to be.

Here, we also learn how important it is for us to lighten up, why the word please matters, and why being curious about someone else is such a powerful turn on for them. If you're dating, or looking to impress your boss, then don't miss this chapter.

The next chapter is all about the importance of going the extra inch for someone else, or for something you really want. And, the authors make a great point here when they say that, in our ultra competitive world, being nice can often be looked at as a disadvantage. But, the opposite is true.

Small things like sending thank-you letters to your clients, asking after their children by name, and strategically placing your dinner guests at the table can often produce some amazing results.

And again, we get plenty of wonderful little stories that back this up.

Our favorite tip from this chapter is the importance of paying a little more attention to what we're doing during the day. Often, we've got so much on our plates that we neglect to finish one project to our complete satisfaction before diving into something else.

We've all done this. And yet, how many times have we wished that we could have taken just a bit more time to look things over? What trouble that would have saved us!

If we take just a few extra minutes to double check things, we can really show others that our mindset is for quality, not quantity. And, this can make all the difference in the world to our friends, our clients, or our boss.

Chapter five is about baby steps. And if you've got a major project or overwhelming task coming up, this is a chapter you'll find especially relevant.

Now, we've all had to face mammoth challenges before. And, it can be overwhelming when we look at the big picture and try to get everything solved at once.

But, we need to use the power of small here. We need to break the project up into tiny stages, and focus on solving each step as we go. Taking small steps through a big project makes things infinitely more manageable. It's how suspension bridges get built, so it makes sense that it would work on our projects.

When we take small steps towards a big goal, we should reward ourselves along the way. Too many times, the authors say, we get focused on the end result: the finish line of the race, or the big corner office after the promotion.

Often, what happens is that all the tiny victories we achieve along the way get swept aside as unimportant. Why? Because we're so focused on the end goal.

Not taking the time to celebrate our little victories robs us of the sweetness of the experience. And, it's the small steps that make up our lives.

Want to know what else you learn here? Well, the authors go into the eastern philosophy of kaizen, which views success as a continuing process, instead of a distant goal. And we learn how adopting the view of kaizen literally tricks our brains into being more open to change.

This is just one fascinating concept among many that are tucked into this little chapter.

One of our favorite chapters was on how little mistakes can spell disaster, and how we can avoid them simply by focusing on the small stuff. Here's a funny story that illustrates this.

Randall had just graduated from the prestigious University of Michigan, and landed a prime job at a top-notch advertising agency. One day, during his first week at the agency, the creative director called him into her office. She was on the phone, barking orders, cradling a cup of coffee in one hand and a cigarette in the other.

She was beautiful, intimidating, and Randall was scared out of his wits.

The director quickly waved a piece of paper at him, and told him to schlep it down to production.

But Randall, a fresh faced kid from the Midwest, had no idea what schlep meant. Google wasn't invented yet, and all his advertising books came up with nothing. He thought at first it might mean to photocopy, but he was too afraid to ask a colleague for help. He really didn't want to look stupid.

So, he was a nervous wreck for the next two hours, while he worried about what to do. At last, he hauled himself back into the director's office to get further instructions, fearing his career was over.

When he told the director that he didn't know what the word meant, she roared with laughter, and then promptly called the head of the company to let him know the new kid didn't know what schlep meant.

As you can imagine, Randall wanted to sink through the floor.

After she had a good laugh, the director told him that schlep was Yiddish, and that it meant to bring. And, then she congratulated him for having the gumption to speak up.

Want to know what happened after that? Randall soon got a great promotion, and a raise. As a congratulations gift, the head of the company gave him a book, titled The Joys of Yiddish. Randall ended up doing great at the agency.

In the next chapter, Make It Big By Thinking Small, we learn about entrepreneurs who've made millions by focusing on small. As usual, the stories are enlightening, and the tips at the end are relevant and useful.

Our favorite tip was that we need to learn how to be four again. As in, four years old.

What do the authors mean by this one? Well, they say that we all need to start asking more questions in life. If we see someone we admire who's successful, then why not ask them how they did it? Finding out how they reached their goals can only help us reach ours. So, just ask.

This is a book that is full of wisdom and funny, inspiring stories. But, don't think it's just one story after another. It's not. At the end of every chapter the authors offer clear-cut tips on how we can transform our own lives by focusing on the small. And, every story told in the book has a powerful lesson at its core. They're all a delight to read.

There was nothing we didn't like about "The Power of Small." It's the kind of book that's perfect for reading at night, because it's relaxing, inspiring and fun. And, at one hundred and thirty pages, it won't take you long to get through.

"The Power of Small," by Linda Kaplan Thaler and Robin Koval, is published by Broadway Books.

That's the end of this episode of Book Insights.

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The small things make the biggest difference in each day

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People often say that you don’t need to mind the little things. They say you can just brush them off, forget about them, and continue on with life as if they never happened. But what those people don’t know is that the little things do matter. Small acts of love daily can mean much more compared to a grand romantic gesture that happens only once in a year. And simple delights throughout the day can make all the difference and allow you to enjoy a fuller and more satisfying life.

The pursuit of happiness is a lifelong journey for many people. And while there are many roads that you can choose to take, one of them is through performing a series of small acts each day. You may not see it now, but over time, you will come to realise how these tiny details add up and create value in your life. Here are 10 little things that you can do to make a big difference in your day:

Having enough sleep

With so much to do in so little time, it’s rare for people nowadays to get a healthy eight hours of sleep in one go. And cheating by taking several naps throughout the day while backing it up with a boost of caffeine doesn’t count. Not having enough sleep affects not only your physical well-being but your emotional and mental health as well. So be sure to get the right amount of shut-eye each night.

A small change to your routine

Add some spice to your life and switch up your routine just a little bit. Try calling an old friend or taking a day trip to a new place. The beauty of life lies in knowing that the best is still yet to come. Life is full of endless possibilities, and you never know what could happen anytime, anywhere.

Five minutes of deep breathing

It’s time to hit the pause button and just stay still for once. Spend five minutes inhaling and exhaling slowly and deeply. Simply focusing on the day ahead can improve your mood and allow you to feel more relaxed. This will definitely improve the way you perform your tasks later on.

Fresh, organic food (if you can get it)

Take a break from fast food and treat yourself to a dish of fresh, organic food. It has higher nutrient levels and lower pesticide residues compared to non-organics. It also tastes much better and provides your body with better health benefits.

A deep stretch – yoga

Contact your yoga instructor and set an appointment for that yoga session that you’ve been putting off for so long. Loosening your muscles through deep stretches greatly enhances relaxation. Daily practice is helpful in creating a better and happier version of you.

A smile from a stranger

Show off your pearly whites to someone you meet out on the street. A simple smile or nod from a stranger can give you a feeling of connection that you probably didn’t know you needed. Be sure to give a smile first and you’ll most likely receive one later.

An opportunity to be creative

Let your creative juices flow, and try expressing yourself through a range of mediums. Don’t just sit around and wait for inspiration to hit you, get up and chase it. You can start by writing in your journal, taking some awesome photos, singing, making something, or painting a picture. Creativity will call you in your own unique way. Go express yourself.

Hearing your favorite song

There’s just something about hearing your favorite song on the radio that makes you want to sing along. Belting out those lyrics can help release the tension and stress off your mind, even for just a moment. Remember to keep humming that melody in your heart and you’re guaranteed to enjoy the rest of your day.

A 5-minute massage

It’s time to loosen the tension in your muscles and give yourself that much-needed massage. Just ask for a 5-minute massage one from your significant other. Or if you’re feeling up to it, you can take yourself on a trip to the massage parlor and let the professionals do the job.

A morning lie-in (if you can get one)

Nothing can beat hitting the snooze button on your alarm after a hectic week. Sleeping in can give your body the rest it needs and prepare you for the busy day ahead. You don’t know the wonders an extra half-hour of sleep can do to your day.

In the midst of the hubbub of life, it’s difficult to find the time to relax and simply be thankful that you’re alive. Whether you’re at a crossroads, embarking on a new journey, or waiting for your big break, just sit back and remember that your time will come soon enough. Make an effort to perform these little things throughout your day, and you’ll definitely see a positive change in your life, resulting in a better and happier version of yourself.

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Little things make a big difference.

“PACE is a mission that will use the unique vantage point of space to study some of the smallest things that can have the biggest impact.” — Karen St. Germain, director of NASA’s Earth Science Division

The skies above us are teeming with tiny particles of dust, sea salt, smoke, and human-made pollutants. The seas, oceans, and lakes around us are teeming with microscopic, plant-like organisms. In both cases, individual bits of these tiny living and inanimate particles are too small for your eye to see. But when billions to trillions of them aggregate in one place, we can see them from space. And these little things make a vast difference for life on Earth.

small things make big difference essay

The particles in the air are known to atmospheric scientists as aerosols. Though the spray cans you might use for paint or hairspray do contain aerosols, the ones PACE will study are the flecks of carbon that rise from wildfires and smokestacks; the fine, dusty minerals that get lofted from deserts into the sky by strong winds; the nitrates and sulfates spewed by cars, trucks, and ships in their exhaust; and the salty spray from crashing waves and strong winds blowing over the ocean.

Why study them? Because those particles influence air quality, sometimes making it unhealthy to breathe, especially if you have asthma or heart and lung conditions. Pollution and smoke don’t observe borders – we all share Earth’s air — so it’s important to know something about the sources and types of particles floating around us. On the positive side, the bits of mineral dust or smoky aerosols can sometimes fertilize the ocean , providing nutrients for phytoplankton to bloom. 

Aerosols also affect weather and climate. Tiny particles in the air reflect sunlight, and how much they reflect affects how much the land and ocean surfaces heat up. Aerosols also “seed” the formation of clouds: they provide surfaces on which water droplets form ( condensation nucleii ) as they aggregate into clouds. One of the great unknowns in our models of climate change is what role will aerosols will play in changing rainfall and snowfall patterns and in the heating or cooling of our atmosphere.

Though NASA has been studying aerosols from space for decades — observing where they are and the abundance of them — PACE and its SPEXone and HARP2 polarimeters will change the game. The instruments will tell us the shape and size of aerosols, helping us answer questions about where they come from and how they might influence other parts of the Earth system.

small things make big difference essay

The other little things that PACE will examine have names like diatoms, coccolithophores, cyanobacteria, algae, and dinoflagellates. To borrow and mangle a quote from one of my favorite movie characters — Annie Savoy in  Bull Durham  — if you have three phytoplankton, they can’t do much. But if you have 300 billion of them, they can build a cathedral. Well, maybe not a cathedral, but they can develop into vast blooms that have a profound impact on life on this ocean planet. 

Phytoplankton  grow constantly on Earth and just about anywhere there are open, sunlit patches of water. When conditions are right, the growth of these microscopic cells can blossom to scales that are visible from orbit for days to weeks. 

Phytoplankton are to the ocean what grasses and ground cover are to land:  primary producers , a basic food source for other life, and the main carbon recycler for the marine environment. They are floating, plant-like organisms that soak up sunshine, sponge up nutrients, and create their own food (energy).

Why do we need to study these tiny organisms with PACE? While humans don’t really consume phytoplankton for food, the little floaters are fuel for the zooplankton, fish, and shellfish that we do eat. We also need to care about phytoplankton because they can influence water quality and human health. Some species of phytoplankton produce toxins that are dangerous to humans and animals; others can grow in such abundance that they crowd out other species or deplete the water of necessary oxygen. 

Speaking of oxygen, phytoplankton produce a lot of it. Somewhere between 20 and 50 percent of the oxygen on Earth — some in our air, a lot in the ocean — is made by phytoplankton as they use photosynthesis to turn sunlight, carbon dioxide, and nutrients into sugars. In the process, they also draw carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere and, in time, sink it to the bottom of the ocean.

small things make big difference essay

Better understanding the phytoplankton in the ocean will help us better understand the fisheries that feed us and our economy, and it can ultimately help us work toward cleaner waterways. 

NASA and its research partners have been studying phytoplankton from space for decades, but mostly with just a few wavelengths of light. I am looking forward to the colors, textures, and details we will see with PACE’s OCI hyperspectral imager . As the PACE science team likes to say: we have been coloring the ocean with a box of 8 crayons, and now we are about to get a box with 128 shades of color. The leap in detail will allow scientists to better spot where phytoplankton are, but also figure out who (what species) they are.

And when PACE data are combined with observations from our recently launched SWOT mission — which studies the shape and movement of the surface of the ocean — it will be like going from the Earth-observing equivalent of the Hubble Space Telescope to the new James Webb Space Telescope.

Learn more about phytoplankton with these resources:

PACE Phytoplankton Exploration

The Insanely Important World of Phytoplankton

What Are Phytoplankton?

NASA Wants to Identify Phytoplankton Species from Space: Here’s Why.

As the Seasons Change, Will the Plankton?

Phytoplankton May Be Abundant Under Antarctic Sea Ice

Learn more about aerosols with these resources:

Just Another Day on Aerosol Earth

New NASA Satellite to Unravel Mysteries About Clouds, Aerosols

Global Transport of Smoke from Australian Bushfires

Aerosols: Tiny Particles, Big Impact

PACE StoryMap: Air (E)quality

NASA: Explore Air Quality

Tags: aerosols , algae , biology , earth , marine , NASA , oceanography , PACE , phytoplankton

This entry was posted on Wednesday, February 7th, 2024 at 6:31 pm and is filed under PACE: Color of the Ocean and Blue Sky . You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

One Response to “Little Things Make a Big Difference”

Great story, and wonderful imagery! But it would be good to have captions.

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Noah Hawley

academic writing tips from a professional writer

small things make big difference essay

How To Write A Profile Essay – Small Things That Make The Difference

A profile essay is a descriptive piece of writing. It could describe different things, such as a person or perhaps a place. As long as you can provide plenty of details about something, it makes a great subject. Make sure there is lots of room for interpretation as well. Describing people is usually the most common way to go with this type of essay. However, as easy as it might seem, learning how to write a profile essay could actually be quite challenging.

A profile essay is more common among students of journalism. They need to prove their abilities at describing events, places, and people. Interview essays also go in the same category, as such a career clearly requires lots of interviews. It takes a lot of research and more importantly, the essay must be neutral. It must be balanced, but quite detailed too.

Get your lead

You need to steal from the best of the best. Stealing does not involve plagiarism. It is a way to describe your inspiration. You need to find some reliable sources and check out some of their essays. Plenty of magazines bring in profile essays, so you can start your venture there.

At this point, you need to check out the style and final effect. Most of these essays will describe famous people. Your essay is likely to be different. Read a few different essays from different journalists and determine what makes one piece better than the other.

You have to see how characters are introduced, how their stories become colorful, and what details authors focus on. More importantly, make sure you come up with a connection. If you write eight paragraphs, your reader should feel like they already know your character after a couple of paragraphs.

Choose a subject

Choosing a subject could be a difficult job. This is when you make a difference. Ideally, you should avoid writing about celebrities or famous people – unless they are your friends and you can get in touch with them. Other than that, you will have to find a different person.

Choosing someone you know is the preferred choice. Besides, writing about an unknown person could be more interesting for your audience. They already know a lot about the President or some famous singers.

Interview your subject

This is the main reason wherefore you should go for someone you know. It is not essential, but it will help – unless you write about someone who died already. You can also get in touch with their relatives. This step is more important if you are a journalist. If you are a student, you might skip it, yet it will add a lot to the quality standards.

Come up with a list of questions before you get to the interview. Try to avoid questions that require basic answers – such as yes or no. You need questions that your subject can talk about. Sure, a few yes and no questions will help, but they are mostly used as a warm-up. Furthermore, you need your questions to be connected and make sense. Try to get some interesting details out, rather than things that everyone could find over the Internet.

Write your essay

Learning how to write a profile essay is relatively easy now, as you go through all the above-mentioned steps. You will have to provide some facts and info, as well as a personal evaluation too. The statement must be attractive and hook your readers in – the whole essay is based on this step.

The essay is not a transcript of the interview. Instead, it must be divided into paragraphs and words must flow. There has to be a connection between paragraphs. Ideally, you should avoid jumping from one topic to a random one. Keep things natural and logical.

More importantly, keep in mind that you need to engage readers . Your essay must be entertaining, but also informative. At this point, small details tend to make a difference.

As a short final conclusion, little attention can point you in the right direction when learning how to write a profile essay. Stick to small steps and ensure a smooth flow, an interesting approach, and lots of small details. Your essay will definitely draw some positive attention then.

How Can a Little Help Make a Big Difference

By: Author Valerie Forgeard

Posted on Published: February 8, 2022  - Last updated: July 31, 2023

Categories Community , Self Improvement , Society

You do not have to be rich and powerful to make a difference. You can already make a difference, even if you do not think it’s possible (but you doubt yourself because you are not powerful). It turns out that many small things we do in our everyday lives make a big difference, but we just do not realize it.

Small Acts Can Make a Big Difference

Sometimes it seems like there’s nothing we can do to make a positive change. The problems of the world seem insurmountable, and we feel small and insignificant. But we are capable of much more than we realize. We have the power to change another person’s life with a little help.

We are all capable of changing the world for the better, one small step at a time. Little things like a single act of kindness can have a ripple effect that touches many others, both directly and indirectly.

You Have the Power to Make a Positive Impact

We live in a world where we believe that great things come from great deeds. We see people doing extraordinary things to help others, and that makes us think that we are not capable of doing something on the same scale. But the truth is, you do not have to.

As a human being, you have more power than you think. You have eyes, ears, and a voice – and there are many things you can do just with your abilities as a human being to help.

Examples of How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference

Be a good listener.

When we truly listen to others, they know it. We convey this through our respect, interest, and concern. However we look at it, listening is a powerful tool.

The quality of our communication with others determines the quality of our relationships. If we are willing to understand other people and their problems, we can help them solve their problems as well.

Sometimes people need to vent and express their feelings to feel better. When we give people time to vent their feelings, they usually feel better emotionally. They also gain a new perspective and can look at the problem more objectively.

When a person feels that he or she has been listened to, it gives him or her a sense of relief and self-confidence. It also helps her or him focus on solutions instead of just getting rid of emotions and frustrations.

Think Before You Speak

We all have different opinions about how things should be done, and sometimes when we share those opinions, we say things that make others feel defended or upset. This does not always happen intentionally, but when we compare our ideas and opinions with those of others, they may disagree with us and can become argumentative. Sometimes we say things in an emotional state that can do irreparable damage to our relationships with others.

Many people speak without thinking and end up giving the wrong advice or upsetting others, as we can now notice on social media where people end up blocking each other for small things. Always think before you say something because it is more helpful and reduces the damage that is done. There would be less strife in the world if everyone thought carefully before they spoke. This way you also show others how they should behave.

The same is true for any random act, even the small ones can make a big difference in people’s lives.

Be Kind in Your Words and Actions

The ability to be kind and courteous is a skill that everyone can learn. The more you practice, the better you will become.

The most important thing to realize, however, is that kindness is not only beneficial when dealing with others. Being kind can affect the way other people treat you, and it can make them enjoy being with you.

Kindness crosses all boundaries – race, gender, nationality, and many other factors play a role when we interact with others. It’s a great tool for making friends, and even better for getting people to be friends with you or work with your company.

For example, complimenting a young person who lacks confidence may be a small thing for you, but a greater reward and encouragement for them.

However, being friendly does not mean you should never disagree or respond negatively. When appropriate, use kindness in conjunction with firmness when necessary. If someone behaves rudely or inconsiderately, you should use this as an opportunity to teach them a lesson about how their behavior affects others. Remember, however, that kindness is also an excellent way to teach others positive attitudes and values.

Spread Positivity

Positivity is contagious. When you are positive, people around you smile and reflect your positive attitude. This can make a big difference in the way you and others think about the world, your life, and your potential. Negativity is equally contagious. When we are negative, the people around us feel that negativity, and that makes everyone feel worse.

Imagine what would happen if we all spread positivity through our thoughts, words, and actions. How would the world look different?

We have a choice every day. We can choose to be happy or sad, say a mean or a kind word (eg: compliment), be loving or hateful, positive or negative. The choice is ours.

We can choose to find something good in every situation: the person who lets us in line at Target, the beautiful sunset that washes over us on the way home from work, or the friendly smile of a stranger on an airplane, a small change in our street. If we look for good things throughout the day, we will find plenty of important things to keep us positive!

There are so many things we can share with each other: Precious time, meaningful conversation, empathy, a listening ear. There are also bigger things we can share – land and the resources to grow food, or the skills to meet our basic needs.

Sharing is part of the solution to many problems that currently exist in our world. Sharing is also part of what makes us human: it is a way we can connect with each other and make life more meaningful.

As mentioned many times before, you do not have to be rich to make a difference.

A small gesture like a $1 donation can make a big difference for some people, especially the homeless or people living in a poorer country where the value of $1 can mean a week’s bus ride or half a day’s wages. $1 can be a small act that means many important things for them!

However, you need to be careful about which organization your money goes to. Some organizations have high administrative costs and only give a small portion of their income to the actual beneficiaries. You should choose an organization that has a few administrative costs as possible and gives as much as possible to the cause.

If you can not afford to donate money right now, you can also donate items that you no longer need.

Offer Your Time

In your everyday life, there are many small things you can do for the local community that can make a positive difference in people’s lives, it doesn’t have to be a big thing.

Time is a precious commodity. After you have paid your bills, taken care of your family, and enjoyed some downtime, there’s often not much left to give. But there are other gestures that can contribute to a huge impact in people’s lives, for example, you can donate time, such as volunteering an hour a week or even helping a neighbor in need by sharing the few hours they need to rake leaves. If you have children, take them along and let them help. That way you can teach them a valuable lesson about helping others.

Deal With Your Own Ego

If you have an argument or dispute with a loved one, even if you feel that your loved one is to blame, do not let your pride keep you from admitting your mistake. Emotions can run high in these situations, and conflicting egos can make it hard to see what’s best for everyone.

Many conflicts stem from ego. Often someone feels they are in the wrong and wants to apologize, but the other person does not want to admit they did anything wrong – or at least does not want to apologize.

Do not allow yourself to become that person. If you think you did something wrong, or even if you think the other person might be right, admit it. Admitting you made a mistake can end a conflict immediately and make more of a difference than you think by getting others to think about your humble action.

Take Care of Your Mental Health

Our daily routine can be stressful, and if we don’t take care of our own mental health, how can we help others?

Without good mental health (e.g., depression), it’s hard to think of the little things we can do to make a positive difference. It’s important to eat well, sleep well, exercise, etc. When you’re balanced, every little step you take makes a big difference.

Be the Bigger Person

Being the bigger person makes a difference in your own life when you choose to act with more respect than you are treated. It shows that you have confidence in yourself and in the choices you make.

Leading by example is what many great leaders have done to make a positive change in the world.

They set the standard for others who follow in their footsteps and do the same, always keeping the big picture in mind.

It also shows others how they should treat you. If they are rude, insult you, or act disrespectfully toward you, it’s time for them to learn manners – or find out what it’s like to get along on their own without your friendship and support!

Train Yourself

Your life is your training ground. Just as the athlete trains his body and mind to become a champion, you can train yourself to achieve your goals.

It’s not just athletes who need to train. That’s right, you have to too.

You can not get anywhere without training, especially in a field where the world depends on individuals making a big difference to shaping a better future. Of course, you will not have the power to change policy or sign peace treaties, but who knows who will cross your path or talk about you in the future?

If you are focused and determined, you can empower yourself to do anything. You can learn new skills, become a better communicator, or develop a better work ethic. You can learn to be more organized or manage your finances better. You can practice one little thing at a time: being more patient, compassionate, and understanding with yourself and others. Doing the right little things is what could make the biggest difference.

What Have You Done to Improve the Lives of Others?

A good way to practice making a difference is to keep a journal and write down each day what you did to make a difference that reminds you to practice each day. You do not have to do anything really big, but small acts like the ones above can make a huge difference.

Related Posts About Making a Positive Difference

How My Choices Affect the Global Community

How You Can Contribute to Help and Make a Difference as a Student

Why Volunteering Is Enjoyable (Answered)

How Local Community Affects the Global Community

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small things make big difference essay

Small changes make a difference on Earth Day

WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — On Earth Day, local advocates say one person’s actions can make a difference.

Jessica Maldonado with 316 United says small things like unplugging things you’re not using, paying attention to packaging, not using plastic bottles, turning off lights and water, and keeping your thermostat at an energy-efficient temperature make a difference.

“Practice mindfulness with every action throughout your day with the intention to make small habit changes, and you’ll really notice how much of a difference you can make and the benefits for your life and those around you,” Maldonado said.

Tissu is a sewing studio and slow fashion school. One of their focuses is sustainable fashion. The owner, Nina Winter, says being mindful of purchasing clothes can make a difference.

“It’s slowing down thinking about where your fabrics come from, where your clothing comes from,” Winter said. “So it’s just taking a simple moment to take a step back instead of going out and shopping at all the big chain stores and reusing what you have in your closet. So upcycling, you can pretty much learn to sew from scratch, which is what we do here.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV.

Small changes make a difference on Earth Day

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Home › Self Mastery › 8 Small changes that can make a big difference in your life

  • Self Mastery
  • June 8, 2023
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8 Small changes that can make a big difference in your life

small changes make a big difference

Wouldn’t it be amazing if you could do just a few small things to drastically transform your life? In this post, we’ll discuss 8 small changes that can make a big difference in your life. These are simple habits that, if done consistently, can have a profound impact on your well-being and overall appearance.

There is a trend going around the internet about these 8 small changes that can make a big difference in your life. Most of the time they are described as life altering changes that, if done for 30 days, will make you unrecognizable. While this does sound very exciting, I worry that statements like that open us up to disappointment if we don’t complete the full 30 days. After all, we’re human, most of us have busy lives. Even with the best of intentions, we may miss a day here or there, especially when we’re starting a brand new habit.

When embarking on a journey of positive changes, it’s better to shift your mindset from considering it as a temporary 30-day challenge to embracing it as a lifestyle change. Why? Because true transformation occurs when we integrate these positive habits into our daily lives, making them a part of who we are. 

Instead of thinking, “I just need to do this for 30 days,” remind yourself that these changes are long-lasting and have the potential to bring continuous benefits to your life. Embrace them as part of your personal growth and well-being journey, knowing that each day is an opportunity to build upon your progress.

It’s also important to remember that no one is perfect, and it’s completely okay to make mistakes along the way. The key is not to be too hard on yourself when you slip up, or forget. Instead of dwelling on the mistake or feeling discouraged, choose to view it as a learning experience.

If you miss a day of exercise, indulge in a sugary treat, or skip a meditation session, don’t beat yourself up over it. Remind yourself that tomorrow is a new day, a fresh opportunity to get back on track. Embrace the mindset of resilience and self-compassion. Learn from your mistakes, identify what triggered the slip-up, and make adjustments moving forward.

Remember, change is a gradual process, and it’s the consistent effort that counts. Each day is a chance to recommit to your goals and make progress towards becoming the best version of yourself. Embrace the journey with kindness and understanding, knowing that setbacks are part of the process .

Failure is not the opposite of success. It is part of success. Unknown

Small changes that make a big difference

1. prioritize sleep.

Make it a goal to get a solid 7+ hours of sleep every night. Quality rest rejuvenates your body, improves focus, and gives you the energy to tackle each day with enthusiasm. By consistently prioritizing sleep, you’ll wake up refreshed and ready to conquer the world!

If you’re a mother of little ones, you’re probably going to find this one hard to do. You’re in a season of your life where your babies are not going to allow you to take good care of yourself. Accept it, it will pass, and do the best you can by taking disco naps whenever you can.

2. Keep yourself hydrated

Drink enough water to keep your body hydrated throughout the day. Water is essential for maintaining healthy skin, aiding digestion, and promoting overall well-being. 

By staying hydrated, your skin will become more radiant, and you’ll feel more alert and energized. Water helps flush out toxins, leading to a clearer complexion.

3. Embrace the sun

Put on your sunscreen, then spend time outdoors and soak up some natural sunlight. Sunlight provides you with Vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health and boosting your mood. Fresh air and nature can provide a sense of peace and rejuvenation. Plus, the warmth of the sun can give you a natural energy boost.

4. Cut out the sugar

If you’re addicted to sugar, (like most of us), this is a hard one! Challenge yourself to cut out the sugar. Replace sugary treats with healthier alternatives like fresh fruits or natural sweeteners. You’ll notice fewer energy crashes, clearer skin, and improved overall health.

Cutting out added sugars can lead to reduced cravings, improved dental health, and stable energy levels throughout the day. You may even notice weight loss and a healthier relationship with food.

how small changes can make a big difference in your life

5. Feed your mind

Make it a habit to read for at least 30 minutes every day. Choose books or articles that inspire and educate you. Reading stimulates your mind, expands your knowledge, sparks creativity, and broadens your perspective. You’ll gain insights and discover new ideas that can positively impact various aspects of your life.

6. Get moving

Aim to exercise at least three times a week. Find activities you enjoy, whether it’s going for a jog, attending a dance class, or practicing yoga. Regular exercise boosts your mood, improves cardiovascular health, and helps you build strength and stamina. You’ll feel more confident and notice improvements in your body composition and stamina.

7. Fuel your body with goodness

Incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your daily meals. These nutrient-rich foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support your immune system and enhance your overall health. You’ll likely experience increased energy levels and improved overall well-being.

8. Practice mindfulness

Take 10 minutes each day to meditate and practice mindfulness by focusing on the present moment. This simple practice reduces stress, improves mental clarity, and enhances your overall well-being. Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and let your thoughts settle as you connect with your inner self.

Celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and be proud of the progress you’ve made. Focus on the positive changes you’ve incorporated into your life and the benefits you’ve experienced. Recognize that transformation takes time and effort, and you are on the right path.

If you fall off the wagon, be gentle with yourself, forgive your mistakes, and approach each day with renewed determination. Remember, tomorrow is another opportunity to continue your journey towards a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.

One of my favorite books is The Slight Edge, by Jeff Olson . It’s a book about how small changes can make a big difference in your life.

From one friend to another

While these tips are easy to do, they might be hard to implement, long term. The one I had the biggest challenge with was eliminating sugar, so I thought I’d add my 5 cents here.

I was addicted to sugar for yonks. I knew it was bad, but I just couldn’t kick the habit. What finally worked for me was when I needed to lose weight for a competition. I wasn’t overly strict though–I allowed myself treats on special occasions.  For example, when it was the twins birthday, I ate lots of cake, but the next day I went back to cutting sugar.

I believe there were four reasons this plan worked for me.

  • I was really motivated; 
  • I didn’t tell myself I could never have sweets. I think if I felt deprived, the plan would have been unsustainable.
  • I started seeing results, and once that happened, I wasn’t going to waste my efforts on a piece of candy. For special occasions, we buy cakes from Nothing Bundt Cakes, and for those cakes, I am happy to make an exception.
  • I lost my sugar cravings after about two weeks.

If you’re having your own challenges with sugar addition, I hope this helps.

Small changes that make a big difference

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