Don't Just Take, GIVE
Takers are draining. They repel people.
We all know one or two people in our lives that we consider “draining”. These people constantly “take” from those around them and don’t add too much to anyone else’s lives. Giving and taking is not exclusive to money. It’s about energy, time, resources, love.. EVERYTHING. Life is about balance. Community is built on giving and taking. You can’t be too much of either, but you DEFINITELY don’t want to be too much of a taker. Givers can be taken advantage of but Takers REPEL people and opportunities. Becoming more of a giver in life is about shifting your mindset from focusing on what you can gain to how you can contribute to others. It’s not just about material giving but also about offering time, kindness, and support. Here’s how you can be more of a giver:
Practice Gratitude
When you appreciate what you already have, it’s easier to give without expecting something in return. Expecting things in return for giving leads to getting your hopes up. You don’t own people or their actions. Wake up every morning and name some things in your life that you are grateful for. Repeat this every single day, even when you’re not feeling too positive.
Give Your Time
Volunteer for a cause you care about. Offer help to friends, family, or colleagues without being asked AND without looking for them to help you in return. Listen actively and be present for people in need.
Share Your Knowledge & Skills
Teach someone a skill they need that you have mastered. If you know something and they don’t, SHARE THE INFORMATION. Givers are not gatekeepers. Mentor a younger person in your field. Offer guidance and encouragement without expecting something in return.
Be Generous with Compliments & Encouragement
Celebrate others’ achievements without jealousy. Don’t think about yourself when other people are having their moment. Lift people up with kind words and genuine praise. Understand that you can give praise and compliments without feeling inferior about your own accomplishments.
Be a Connector
Introduce people who could benefit from knowing each other. Again, DON’T GATE KEEP. Help others find opportunities, jobs, or resources. If you see something that can help someone else, send it to them. Link them! If you are reading a book that you know someone else can benefit from, send them the name of it! If you got it, gift them a copy! Givers are connectors.
Learn to Give Grace
Forgive people more easily. Let go of resentment and grudges. Offer second chances when deserved. Givers give grace. They don’t hold onto to painful things of the past.
Lead by Example
Be the kind of giver (person) you wish to see in others. Inspire generosity in those around you through your actions. People with a mission usually attract other people on a mission. Leading by example will attract others who want to do the same.
Being a giver doesn’t mean neglecting yourself—it means finding joy in adding value to others' lives. The more you give, the more abundance you’ll attract naturally.
