The Secret to Living is Giving
I’m starting my year out with this mantra… it pays to go positive!
When you focus on win-win relationships, life is easier and more enjoyable. I’m a big believer that if you want to receive help, start by offering it.
You see, this type of reciprocation is embedded in our DNA. I’ve learned that helping others in combination with the pay-it-forward concept can lead to a more fulfilling life.
As I find ways to contribute to the community at large, I’m reminded of my trip to Mt. Kilimanjaro in 2006.. it was a once-in-a lifetime adventure…
Besides the adventure aspect, part of the reason for the hike was to help the Porters. These are the locals who guide the entire hike. They’re the backbone of the trek. The load they lug up the mountain is anywhere from 50 -80 lbs every day. The Porters are so giving… constantly helping people reach the top. But their life is short lived, and they have no insurance.
Part of the reason for the hike was to help improve the working conditions of the porters by:
Lending mountain clothing to porters free of charge
- Advocating for fair wages and ethical treatment by all companies climbing Kilimanjaro
- Encouraging climbers to select a climbing company with responsible treatment practices towards their crew
- Providing educational opportunities to the mountain crew
Harnessing the joy of giving has sustained me over the years in my business and personal life, and it recharges my batteries.
One lesson I’ve learned for sure in life is the importance of giving much more than you expect to receive.
Ultimately what shapes the meaning of our lives is not what we get, but what we give. If you can make it your goal to each day find a way to add more value to people’s lives than anyone else, then you’ll never have to worry about success. But if you’re constantly just trying to make a deal, trying to make a trade—‘I’ll give you this if you give me that,’ you’ll find yourself struggling to prosper.
Remember, the secret to living is giving.
We’re not made to be selfish. We can succeed and achieve, but what we want deep in our souls is to feel like life matters, that we’re givers, not takers. If each day you can sincerely feel like you’ve given something of value to those around you, I can promise you you’ll experience the ultimate victory of life; a life of meaning and joy.
