GENEROSITY

Being generous conjures up images of people volunteering for non-profits or giving money to those in need. While these are wonderful examples of generosity, it’s a mistake to limit our philanthropic impulses to such activities. We need to expand our horizons when it comes to this important topic.

Generosity is healthy or those who give and those who receive. We’ve heard this all our lives from our parents, our school, our church, and we’ve experienced how true it is in practice. For most people, having a positive impact on the lives of others is its own reward. Sharing with someone in need and asking for nothing in return is an incredibly valuable gift we give ourselves.

Perhaps, though, given the frantic pace of modern life, and the financial challenges of today’s world, we find that we can’t be as generous as we would like. Let’s face it, there are lots of other priorities: kids, spouse, work, church, exercise, leisure, etc. Our schedules are already packed, our budgets stretched. Is it even feasible to add another burden? Often our very charitable hearts outpace our wallets and our day planner.

It is quite possible, however, that we’ve overlooked golden opportunities for generosity at the very place where we spend most of our day–at work. Leaders are in the enviable position of being able to influence others. It’s a given that we want our leaders to be competent, knowledgeable and wise, but generous? Yes, it’s undeniably true. A generous leader sets an excellent example for all that follow. Sadly, such leaders are rare, because being generous requires a combination of humility and self-confidence. A genuine desire to share so that others can grow and reach their potential is the hallmark of an individual who is a leader for all of the right reasons — the kind of leader we should all strive to become. It is within our power to do this. There are few things more enjoyable than seeing someone grow and know you’ve played a part. This is truly the gift that keeps on giving.

You can make a difference in people’s life just about every day, if you keep your eyes and ears attuned for the right opportunities. It may be a small piece of advice. It could be in a counseling session. It can be by observing you and your actions, as you serve as a model that others want to emulate. This not only helps others but also yourself as it makes you more valuable to your company. That’s because leaders who exhibit such traits guarantee that the organization will have great future leaders. There is no greater legacy than this.

Helping others reach their potential is one of the most charitable acts any of us can perform. It benefits our co-workers, our company and us. There is time for generosity. However, like most things of value, the impetus has to come from within. A generous disposition doesn’t just form out of thin air. You must nurture it, fan its flames, and honor it as an integral aspect of your daily life. Generosity at work is not only good business it is also simply good.