Are you generous? That is a tough question because there is no standard formula for generosity. What standard do you compare yourself with? We are probably not as generous as Mother Teresa. But maybe we can consider ourselves more generous than many of the corporate and business leaders that we know.
I would like to be more generous. I would imagine that you would also. How can we embrace being more generous? When we look at all the demands and responsibilities in our lives, is it possible to give more? I think so. Especially if I expand my thinking about generosity.
- Earn more to give more. In the last few years I have learned that the more I give, the more I am rewarded with new opportunities. I had to stop telling myself that I would give more when I earned more. Instead I had to give more, which gave me the proper attitude about earning more.
- Value my time more than money. Generosity is not just about money. It is about giving your time to people that need it. My time is more valuable than money, so I began to use it for the value it represented. Two small changes made a difference for me. First, never dismiss someone’s request for help because I felt like I did not have time. It used to be too easy just to say no without thinking, because I am always busy. Two, every day find a way to do something for someone else. No matter how big or small, this effort will make a difference.
- Value my relationships more than money. I expanded my concept of giving beyond just donations to my church, the United Way, and other organizations. I began to see how I can do a better job of supporting others in ways that build relationships, changes lives, and brightens the future. When you see, feel, and participate, it is more than a donation. I want to make sure my generosity is about people and relationships.
- Think long term. Nothing I do today will have a dramatic immediate impact. However, doing something everyday for someone over the next ten, twenty, or thirty years will help make a better future.
Being generous not only helps other people, it makes me better. These changes in my life have affected my daily attitude. Each day I get up knowing that I am doing my best to be generous. How do you want to embrace generosity in your life?