Many people believe that civilization is sliding downhill and the very existence of life on Earth is at risk. With good reason. There’s plenty of evidence that we’re making a mess of things.

But what if we stop and look at the world from a different angle? What if we ask ourselves:

What do you see in the world, what do you see in your world, that gives you confidence in the future?

The first time I asked this question, more than a decade ago, I was leading a workshop—and afraid I’d be up there in front of a silent room. (As it turns out, most people find that question a challenge to answer.)

Here’s how it goes: I ask the question. Long pause.

A tentative voice breaks the silence: “How about women? The ascent of women into positions of power?”

I write these words in the middle of the paper on the wall.

Another long pause before the next idea is offered. I write it up: “advances in medicine.”

Somebody observes that there seems to be a renewed interest in the spiritual dimension of life. Then someone else says, “the invention of the Internet.”

“Wait a minute,” another interrupts. “The Internet is creating some big problems. Sure, it lets us communicate with people far away, but we spend way too much time in front of our computers and not enough in the real world. What about the damage it’s doing?”

OK, I’ve heard this kind of question before. I know it’s likely to be in the back of everyone’s mind:

“Isn’t there a downside to every upside?”

“If you look for it, you can find something wrong with just about anything,” I suggest. “For the moment, let’s try something different: finding things of value. That’s what can fuel the future. So let’s experiment and suspend our ability to see the downside, just for now.”

And I write “the invention of the Internet” on the wall.

Addressing that “what-about-the-downside” question sets the group free. Someone expands on the Internet, saying that communications technology has enhanced freedom of speech. The pace picks up as one person’s idea sparks another’s.

The paper begins to fill and an astonishing range of assets is revealed.

• Increased awareness of the importance of the natural environment.
• The spread of ideals like democracy and universal public education.
• Growing voluntarism.
• Our commitment to care for children.
• Our ability to laugh.

I feel the energy in the room rise.

At the end of the day, I stay after the group has left, looking at the work we’ve put on the wall. I’m moved by how we’ve developed our ability to see all we have going for us—the tailwinds the world offers.

Well, I’m really glad I took a chance and started asking this unusual question.

Let’s take a closer look at how this works. Along the way, you’ll discover six simple keys to making a difference in the world.

Start by picturing yourself in a village in Nepal …

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