Perfect 5 point checklist for saving the world

OK, got your attention? Frances Moore Lappe has written many books (Diet for a Small Planet, etc etc). And one of her latest is called “Getting a Grip”. It’s full of goodness and usefulness. And there’s an updated version too.

And here is (for me) the best bit of all….

Idea 8: Living Democracy’s Checklist
as we probe deeply, identify causal patterns & choose entry points

1. Am I expanding and spreading power?

Does my action create new power – greater awareness and strengthening of my own and others’ capacities? Does it reduce power imbalances?

Is my own effort contributing to a one-time correction, or does it generate ongoing, fairer, and more effective decision-making?

Does accountability flow one-way, or are multiple parties taking responsibility and being held accountable?

2. Am I easing fear of change and fear of the other?

Am I modeling that it’s okay to be afraid as we face the new?

Does my effort replace stereotyping with valuing and welcoming diversity?

Am I helping to build group bonds that strengthen courage without excluding others?

3. Am I learning and teaching the arts of democracy?

Does my effort teach and practice active listening, the creative use of conflict, ongoing evaluation, mentoring and other essential skills for effectiveness?

4. Am I creating movement that is sustainable?

Is the initiative made inherently rewarding with big doses of real learning, humor, beauty, celebration and camaraderie?

Is it being made widely visible so that those beyond the inner circle are motivated to act? (Don’t forget our mirror neurons.)

5. Am I replacing the limiting frame with an empowering one?

Am I helping to replace the core presumption of “lack” with that of “plenty”?

Am I helping to replace belief in fixed economic laws with confidence in human creativity?

Am I refocusing on the goodness “in” human nature – our needs for connection, fairness, and effectiveness – we can tap to heal our beautiful planet?