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Resisting the Call of the Possum

Writer's picture: Sanka KangudiSanka Kangudi

Close-up of a woman's face focusing on her eyes and eyebrows. The expression is introspective. Soft lighting enhances natural skin tones.
A call for introspection

"Completely overwhelmed but proceeding as if everything is fine and reacting to the stress with the torpor of a possum."~Tina Fey


Yet the future belongs to those who refuse to stand still, when action is the only way forward.


Wow! This week we reached the midpoint of this decade, 2025. Given the last 5 years it warrants taking a moment to acknowledge the rapid-fire challenges many of us have had to face since this decade began. In spite of it all, we are still kicking… even if a bit lopsided for wear. 😉


For countless professionals and leaders, survival has been the primary focus: navigating economic pressures, personal trials, and uncertainty about the future. In times like these, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, even paralyzed, as we try to handle our immediate realities. 


Through this struggle for survival, I ask you to consider an important question: Are we allowing ourselves to play possum; playing dead in the face of challenges hoping if we shut our eyes tight enough it will magically fade away? It’s a difficult thought, especially when it feels like there is no space for- one more fight especially when it may not be "your" battle. Yet, we must recognize that procrastination has real consequences—not just for us, but for others. It's not a stretch to realize that someone else's struggle can quickly become our own.


The Power of Small Actions

Many leaders may hesitate to act, fearing that bold moves could backfire or attract unwanted attention. However, impactful change doesn’t always require standing on a soapbox. It often lies in the small, everyday decisions we make. 

Research indicates that 87% of consumers are more likely to support companies that advocate for important issues. This doesn’t mean you need to launch a major campaign; sometimes, it’s about integrating purpose into your daily operations—whether that’s choosing sustainable suppliers, supporting local initiatives, or simply fostering an inclusive workplace culture.


Every small decision can contribute to a larger impact. When we take thoughtful actions within our means, we not only align with our values but also create a ripple effect that encourages others to do the same.


The Challenge of Leadership

Leadership requires courage and clarity. It’s about recognizing that our choices—big and small—have far-reaching consequences. As leaders, we must tackle with our responsibilities and consider how our actions shape our organizations and communities.


- What values guide your decisions?
- How do you respond when faced with pressing societal issues?
- Are you willing to embrace discomfort in pursuit of what is right?

These questions are vital as we navigate a complex world where the lines between business and social responsibility blur.


Inspiring Examples

 Consider organizations that have successfully navigated these challenges:


  • I AM LOVE Project: Founded by Amy Tung, this young Manitoba-based gender inclusive jewelry company empowers women facing barriers to employment. By helping over 35 women re-enter the workforce and take control of their circumstances, they demonstrate how grassroots initiatives can create profound positive change.

  • Salesforce: Their 1-1-1 model, which allocates 1% of equity, employee time, and products to charitable causes, showcases how large corporations can drive significant impact when they align their business strategies with social good.

  • Ben & Jerry's: As a certified B Corporation, they balance purpose with profit while advocating for social justice and environmental sustainability. Their commitment illustrates that businesses can thrive while championing important causes.


Hope and Progress Begins with YOU

As we move forward into this new year, let’s reflect on our roles as leaders whether in title or influence. The future isn’t about choosing between profit and purpose; they are intertwined. By aligning our goals with societal needs through both big initiatives and small daily actions, we can create lasting value—not just for ourselves but for generations to come.



 

Sanka Kangudi is the CEO, of Trendsetting@Work and host of SME Heartbeats: Raw Stories Bold Futures and Expert Insight Series. Sanka's mission is to inspire hope, reveal possibilities, and drive opportunities for SMB/SME entrepreneurs and leaders through an antifragile philosophy to facing disruption (challenges and opportunities.) Follow and connect.

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