GIVE FIRST AND YOU SHALL RECEIVE

Once, a very poor man came to Buddha and asked: "Why am I so poor?"

Buddha answered: "You are poor because you don’t practice generosity. You don’t practice charity."

He replied, “But how can I practice charity if I don’t have anything to give?"

Buddha said, "You have five treasures that you can share with others.

1. you have your face. You can share your smiles with others. It's free and awesome and has an amazing impact on others.

2. you have your eyes. You can look at others with eyes full of love and care. Genuinely you can impact millions. Make them feel so good.

3. You have your mouth. With this mouth you can say nice things to others. Talk good. Make them feel valued. Spread joy and positivity.

4. You have a heart. With your loving heart you can wish happiness to others. Make others feel a bundle of emotions. Touch their lives.

5. Last treasure that you possess is your body. With this body you can do many good things to others.

This story offers a timeless lesson on the essence of generosity and the intangible treasures we all possess. In a VUCA world, where material wealth and external success often dominate our priorities, this narrative provides a profound counterpoint. Buddha’s response highlights that generosity is not limited to material wealth. In a world where economic disparities are widening, this message is particularly relevant. Many people feel powerless to make a difference because they lack financial resources. However, the story reminds us that acts of kindness, empathy, and emotional support are equally valuable. The five treasures—face, eyes, mouth, heart, and body—are universally accessible. These treasures empower individuals to contribute positively regardless of their situation. A simple smile can brighten someone’s day, especially in high-stress environments like workplaces or hospitals.? In SBI, a warm smile, courteous greetings, and a friendly approach can turn an ordinary banking transaction into a positive experience. Customers who feel valued are more likely to remain loyal and refer others. A teacher looking at a struggling student with encouragement can boost their confidence.? Just like looking at others with love and care, we, bankers should also engage customers with eye contact and active listening. Personalized service makes customers feel important. Understanding their needs, remembering their preferences, and suggesting suitable products enhance customer trust and deepen relationships. Complimenting a colleague or expressing gratitude to a service worker can foster positivity.? Using kind words to educate and guide customers on financial matters can make a huge impact. Instead of just processing transactions, we should counsel customers on savings, investments, and loans that fit their goals. Encouraging small farmers, SMEs, and retail customers to plan their financial future strengthens loyalty and increases business volume. Wishing well for others, even in competitive environments, can reduce toxicity and build trust.? A true banker is not just a service provider but a trusted financial partner. When employees work with a genuine intention to help (not just to meet targets), customers notice. Supporting customers in financial distress, offering solutions beyond standard banking, and being empathetic during their challenges make SBI the preferred bank. Volunteering at a shelter or helping an elderly neighbour with chores are acts of physical generosity. SBI can enhance business by actively reaching out instead of waiting for customers to visit. When SBI staff show personal commitment through outreach programs, customer engagement and business growth follow naturally. The idea that “you can’t receive anything in life unless you give it first” aligns with psychological and sociological principles. Studies show that acts of kindness and generosity often lead to a “helper’s high,” improving the giver’s mental and emotional well-being. In a VUCA world, where stress and isolation are prevalent, this reciprocity can create a positive feedback loop. The story emphasizes that care and affection are not transactional. However, in a VUCA world, where relationships and interactions are often driven by personal gain, this ideal can be difficult to uphold. The pressure to succeed and compete can make selfless giving seem impractical. In the gig economy, where workers are often isolated and relationships are transactional, acts of generosity can build trust and foster collaboration. However, the fear of being taken advantage of can deter such behaviour. In a volatile and uncertain world, generosity can be a source of resilience. By focusing on what we can give rather than what we lack, we shift our mindset from scarcity to abundance. This perspective can help individuals and communities navigate challenges more effectively.

While the story is inspiring, it may oversimplify the complexities of poverty and inequality. For someone struggling to meet basic needs, the idea of giving intangible treasures might feel insufficient. Additionally, systemic issues like economic inequality and lack of access to resources require structural solutions, not just individual acts of generosity. A homeless person may not have the emotional bandwidth to smile or offer kind words when they are struggling to survive. In such cases, systemic support (like affordable housing and healthcare) is essential alongside individual acts of kindness.

In essence, the story is not just about charity; it’s about cultivating a mindset of abundance and interconnectedness in a world that often feels fragmented and uncertain. The key lesson is "Give first, and you shall receive." When we focus on helping rather than selling, business automatically grows. Customers will not only stay but also bring referrals, leading to higher deposits, loans, and transactions.