08 May I am what I am because of who we all are
I’ve written and spoken about this before, but not for quite some time, and it’s such a wonderful and important concept I thoroughly believe it’s worth revisiting the idea.
I’m talking about … Ubuntu.
For those who’re not familiar with it, ubuntu describes a set of closely related African-origin value systems that emphasise the interconnectedness of individuals with their surrounding societal and physical worlds.
As hinted at in the headline to this post, “Ubuntu” is sometimes translated as “I am because we are” (also “I am because you are”),or by some others as “humanity towards others”.
Positive psychology, and a number of other disciplines, have emphasised research findings for many years now that highlight the significant and profound benefits of connection, of positive relationships, of belonging and in simple terms, of others.
More than ever, in this seemingly increasingly divided world, I believe this is important, for the health and wellbeing of ALL of us!
Individualism can be helpful when it comes to taking responsibility, which we all need to do for our own lives. But thinking as individuals can also be highly problematic, for one because it can lead to being inconsiderate of others and their needs, but also because it’s simply unrealistic.
We ARE connected and we ALL do depend on others. Recognising and appreciating this provides benefits for all.
Interestingly, the Ubuntu philosophy has applied in a range of contexts, including diplomacy (e.g. in the context of foreign policy), in education (in the sense that learning and knowledge can and often do come from family and community) and in discussions around morality, social justice and positive leadership.
All of which might sound good, and interesting, but might also trigger a question along the lines of … but what does this mean for me, and my life?
Well, that’s kind of the problem. That’s not really the question we should be asking. Instead, try asking something like … what does this mean for my family, my organisation, my community and this world in which we all live?
And what it means is that happiness is not just an individual construct; at least it shouldn’t be. My happiness depends, at least in part, on the happiness of my loved ones, my wife and children, siblings and parents. Even more so, my happiness depends on all those with whom I interact and depend each and every day, to do my work and to receive my work, to produce and deliver the food I eat and the clothes I wear.
I could go on but what I’m inviting you to think about is that by practicing Ubuntu, by thinking we can do the best for ourselves by doing the best for others, contributes not just to our own happiness and wellbeing but also to the happiness and wellbeing of the world and worlds in which we live!