Raise Your Standards : GIVE! .. more than you take...

Giving is one of the most powerful actions you can take to change your life and the lives of those around you. It’s a simple concept, yet its impact is profound. When you give, whether it’s your time, your resources, or your knowledge, you create a ripple effect that extends far beyond the initial act. Giving is not just about making a difference in someone else’s life; it’s about enriching your own.

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Lessons from the World’s Poorest Countries

During my time as Commercial Director at PVI Valves, I had the opportunity to travel around the world, visiting both developed and developing countries. One of the most striking experiences was witnessing the stark contrast between wealth and poverty. In some of the poorest countries, I saw firsthand how little people had, yet how much they were willing to give. Despite their limited resources, these individuals exhibited a level of generosity that was both humbling and inspiring.

I remember visiting a small village where the local community had next to nothing. The houses were simple, the infrastructure almost nonexistent, and access to basic necessities was limited. Yet, when we arrived, the villagers welcomed us with open arms, offering us food and drink, despite their own scarcity. This wasn’t just a gesture of hospitality; it was a powerful demonstration of the human capacity to give, even in the most challenging circumstances.

This experience taught me that giving isn’t about how much you have; it’s about your willingness to share what you can. The people in that village gave not because they had abundance, but because they understood the value of community and connection. They knew that by giving, they were not only helping others but also enriching their own lives. This is a lesson that has stayed with me throughout my life and career.

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The Power of Giving: Lessons from Robin Sharma

Robin Sharma, a renowned leadership expert and author, is a powerful advocate for the concept of giving. In his book The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari, Sharma talks about the importance of living a life of service and giving without expecting anything in return. He argues that true fulfilment comes not from what we get, but from what we give. This idea resonates deeply with me, especially in the context of my own experiences.

Sharma often speaks about the “Law of Diminishing Intent,” which suggests that the longer you wait to act on a good idea or intention, the less likely you are to do it. When it comes to giving, this means that if you feel the urge to help someone or contribute to a cause, you should act on it immediately. Waiting or hesitating diminishes the power of that intention and may lead to missed opportunities to make a difference.

In my career, I’ve found that the most successful and fulfilled people are those who give generously, whether it’s in their professional roles, in their communities, or in their personal lives. These individuals understand that giving is not just about charity; it’s about creating value and making a positive impact wherever you go. This mindset is something I’ve tried to embody in my own life, and it’s something I encourage you to adopt as well.

The Reciprocity of Giving

One of the most beautiful aspects of giving is that it often comes back to you in unexpected ways. This isn’t to say that you should give with the expectation of receiving, but rather that giving creates a positive energy that attracts more of the same into your life. When you give freely and generously, you open yourself up to new opportunities, relationships, and experiences that might not have come your way otherwise.

During my travels, I’ve seen this reciprocity in action many times. In one instance, after helping a small business owner in a developing country secure a much-needed contract, I was introduced to a network of local entrepreneurs who were eager to collaborate and share their knowledge. This connection led to a series of business opportunities that were not only profitable but also deeply rewarding on a personal level. None of this would have happened if I hadn’t taken the time to give my support and expertise to that first business owner.

Giving doesn’t always have to be about money or material resources. It can be about sharing your time, your knowledge, or even just a kind word. In my experience, the more you give, the more you realise that you have to offer, and the more you receive in return. often in ways you never anticipated.

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Making Giving a Habit

Giving should be a habit, something you incorporate into your daily life. It’s easy to get caught up in the demands of work and personal responsibilities, but it’s important to remember that giving doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. Small acts of kindness and generosity can have a significant impact, both on the recipient and on you.

I encourage you to look for opportunities to give in your daily life. This could be as simple as offering your help to a colleague who is struggling with a task, taking the time to listen to a friend who needs support, or volunteering for a cause you believe in. These small acts of giving can add up to make a big difference, not only in the lives of others but also in your own sense of fulfilment and purpose.

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Quick Wins to Start Giving More Today

Here are three quick wins that you can implement immediately to start giving more in your life:?

1. Practice Random Daily Acts of Kindness: Make it a habit to do something kind for someone each day, whether it’s buying a coffee for a stranger, leaving a positive note for a colleague, or donating to a charity. These small acts can brighten someone’s day and create a ripple effect of positivity.

2. Share Your Knowledge: If you have expertise in a particular area, look for opportunities to share it with others. This could be through mentoring, offering advice, or even just sharing useful resources. By giving your knowledge, you empower others to succeed.

3. Volunteer Your Time: Find a cause or organization that you care about and volunteer your time. Whether it’s helping out at a local food bank, participating in a community clean-up, or mentoring young people, giving your time is one of the most valuable gifts you can offer.

Giving is a powerful way to raise your standards and change your life forever. It’s not about how much you have; it’s about your willingness to share what you can. By making giving a habit, you create a life of meaning, connection, and fulfilment. Remember, the more you give, the more you receive—not just in material terms, but in the richness of experiences, relationships, and personal growth. So start today, give generously, and watch how your life transforms in ways you never imagined.

Yours truly

Michel F. Bolle - 13.10.2024

Feel free to have a look at my new book "Raise Your Standards - Design Your Life for Unstoppable Success".