"One way to keep decisions manageable is to consider two
questions: one, do I want to influence other people? Or two, just
not be part of the problem? We see this kind of comment in
discussions all the time: "What difference does it make what I do,
I'm just one person." Which is true, and nobody can possibly be an
activist for every issue that affects them. But you don't have to
be. There is power in following your own path, and the sums of
small actions by individuals can grow to large and significant
sizes. Think, be informed, and consider long-term consequences.
"For one example, a common decision these days is choosing
between a new computer that comes with Windows because it costs
less, or paying a bit more to avoid sending money to Redmond. The
short-term gain is a few more dollars in your pocket. But what's
the real cost to you over the long term? That one purchase is one
more reinforcement of Microsoft's unhealthy control over hardware
manufacturers and retail. On the other hand, making a purchase that
does not benefit Microsoft strengthens the alternatives. After all
these years of complaining the status quo has shifted only a little
bit-- complaining doesn't do much, but voting with your money has
clout."
