Have you ever heard the saying, “One bad apple spoils the barrel?” While it's true in agriculture, it also holds weight in our personal and professional lives. If you're reading this, you're likely a leader—whether in the traditional sense or as a quiet, behind-the-scenes influencer. If you identify as neurodivergent or a chronic overworker, you might also lean towards being a people pleaser. If this resonates, that old saying about the bad apple might be more relevant than you think!
In this newsletter, we’ll explore:
🍲Food Waste: A Global Perspective
👥 The Company You Keep
👣 Leading with Confidence
🍲 Food Waste: A Global Perspective
Fast fashion often sparks debates about unsold clothing, but what about the produce that never reaches grocery store shelves? In the U.S., some companies sell “misfit” fruits and vegetables, those that are too oddly shaped for mainstream markets. However, a report from The Guardian once stated, “Up to two-fifths of fruit and vegetable crops are wasted because they are ‘ugly.’”
When I first read that headline, I was shocked. I’ve shopped on sites that sell these “misfit” fruits, and while I’ve gotten better with my texture sensitivities, I still have a thing about mushy fruits. But rather than waste them, I toss them into smoothies or other recipes.
This issue isn’t unique to the U.S. Many countries favor visually appealing produce, leading to significant waste. However, Dr. Sarah Taber, a crop scientist, debunked The Guardian’s report, highlighting a more pressing issue: how bad immigration policies contribute to food waste in the U.S. This thread of thought made me want to escape to a forest and live off-grid–if only I were more handy–but it also underscored the need to take better care of the earth.
👥 The Company You Keep
Dr. Taber’s insights reminded me of the saying, “One bad apple spoils the barrel.” In produce sorting, “ugly” fruits often become jams, juices, and other processed foods. This practice isn’t just practical; it’s essential. Even cosmetic damage can allow fungus to enter, leading to a rotten apple that eventually spoils the entire barrel.
This concept applies to people, too. Are you keeping some “rotten apples” in your barrel? As a recovering people pleaser, I’ve learned that it’s important to be mindful of who you surround yourself with. As a leader, others look up to you, often more than you realize. It’s important to evaluate who is holding you back or not aligning with your values and vision.
Saying goodbye isn’t always a bad thing. It may feel difficult, but when friends or work collaborators leave your life, it might be for the best. If you’re always the one making concessions, maybe it’s time to let go. Prioritize your mental health and keep yourself healthy, happy, and passionate about your work and your company.
👣 Leading with Confidence:
When you close doors that no longer serve you, you make room for new opportunities and connections that align with your wavelength.
There are people I interact with—both in person and virtually—who light up my entire day. After a call with a client or a chat with family and close friends, I feel a sense of joy and fulfillment. I hope you feel that way too.
Over the next few days, try to identify the people in your life who leave you feeling drained. Prioritize those who uplift you, and everything else will fall into place. One bad apple can spoil the barrel, and you deserve much more than that.
As always, feel free to share this Newsletter with others who might find value in our community. You can also connect with me on LinkedIn and Facebook!
See you next time, sending healing energy your way ✨
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