Edward Everett Hale

The Power of One: Doing Something That Matters

Because feeling small can paralyze, psychology matters here. Martin Seligman’s research on learned helplessness (late 1960s) showed how repeated failure breeds passivity that outlasts the original setback. Albert Bandura’s work on self‑efficacy (1977) offered the antidote: confidence built through mastery experiences, vicarious models, and timely encouragement. In other words, doing one achievable thing changes what we believe we can do next. The belief may begin as borrowed—from mentors, stories, or teams—but it calcifies through action. Consequently, even modest wins become psychological flywheels that keep agency in motion. [...]

Choosing Action Over Complaint in Times of Darkness

Ultimately, Hale’s message is an invitation to cultivate resilience and resourcefulness. By redirecting our focus from obstacles to opportunities, we transform not just our outlook but also our impact on the world. In aligning our energies with solutions, we become architects of light, encouraging others to do the same until even the greatest darkness is diminished. [...]