Category Archives: Give and Take

“In what ways do you give more to the world than you take?”

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“In what ways do you give more to the world than you take?”

—Author Unknown

Image from Unsplash by Jon Tyson

‘Tis the season for pot luck dinners, Secret Santa, and all types of generous acts within our communities.

Although it’s always nice to be on the receiving end at these times, it’s even more rewarding to be on the giving side of the equation.

In what areas of your world have you recently observed people sharing their time, resources, and love with others? How have they prioritized the needs of those around them over their own desires and interests?

EXERCISE:

In the coaching profession, it’s often said that the best coaching is a good example.

Who are the “heart of gold” people in your world that inspire you to give far more than you receive?

How can you acknowledge and give them the recognition they most certainly deserve?

 

“Generosity is not a loan to repay or a debt to settle. It’s a gift to appreciate.”

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“Generosity is not a loan to repay or a debt to settle. It’s a gift to appreciate.”

—Adam Grant, American organizational psychologist and bestselling author

Image from Unsplash by Giullia Bertelli

Adam Grant’s book, Give and Take, is one of my favorites. If you have yet to read it, today’s quote could be one of the top nuggets to summarize its wisdom.

Through his extensive research of givers, takers, and matchers, it’s the givers of the world who seem to lead the most richly rewarding lives.

Perhaps the best way to show our appreciation of the generosity of others is simply to acknowledge it.

EXERCISE:

I hope you will take Adam’s advice and give the generous people in your life your sincere appreciation for their many gifts.

I’ve learned that you shouldn’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands

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“I’ve learned that you shouldn’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back.”

—Maya Angelou, late American memoirist, poet, and civil rights activist

Image from Unsplash by Chris Chow

Baseball is an interesting metaphor for life.

A high percent of the game is focused on the pitcher/catcher exchanges. With fast balls clocking in at up to 100 miles per hour, the catcher clearly needs a very cushioned mitt to avoid serious injury. Without a free hand to return the ball to the pitcher, the game would grind to a halt.

The umpire plays an important role in calling balls and strike, assessing each throw offered to the batter for consideration. If the batter takes too many strikes, they’re out of there.

EXERCISE:

What is your current ratio of catching to throwing in your personal and professional communities?

What adjustments between taking and giving will help you win more of the games you currently play?