One definition of disruptor on dictionary.com is “to cause disorder or turmoil.” Over the past few years the US and the world has experienced dramatically difficult events or disruptors which have unveiled embedded issues. Polarizing political figures, the Me Too Movement, police brutality, systemic racism, and the COVID pandemic. Indeed, these are very tough times to say the least. However, with challenges often come opportunities for growth.

Shakespeare says, “Sweet are the uses of adversity. Which, like the toad, ugly and venomous, Wears yet a precious jewel in his head.” Another dictionary.com definition for disruptor is “to radically change (an industry, business strategy, etc.), as by introducing a new product or service that creates a new market”. We can ask ourselves how will these current disruptors shape a new world, create a new political landscape, change the way people treat each other.

Before the world changes, we as individuals must decide what type of disruptor we will be. Are we creating disorder or turmoil in our actions or are we creating something new, something better? Are we patient, willing to listen, and change ourselves to make things better? What is our part in creating a new world? Are we holding on to the past, preventing us from embracing the now? Before a tree can grow, there must be a seed. Even a seed breaking through the soil is a disruptor. Something to think about…..