The Hidden Power of Receiving from Anyone, Anytime

I think most people find it challenging to receive from individuals who are different from them, especially when those people are vastly different. Leaders—especially in business for the purposes of this book—face this scenario every day. Although their natural tendencies and training have reaped some wonderful rewards, they often stop short of the true exchange necessary for a genuine connection in hu- man-to-human relationships.

Leaders interact with all kinds of people every day. Typically, they are on the giving end, sharing their time, resources, and energy within their sphere of influence in order to build and sustain people and their work. Many leaders have a natural inclination to give. In the article “How Our Brains Make Us Generous,” Summer Allen and Jill Suttie present groundbreaking neuroscience studies that build on prior discoveries, indicating that humans possess an inherent, almost instinctive, inclination to assist others.

But what about receiving?

Are we willing to receive from those who are vastly different than us—people with a different culture, a different religion, a different social status? We find it easy to give to all people, but are we open to receiving what those same people have to offer? Think of it this way. If everyone is busy giving, who’s available to receive the blessings that others provide?

In the workplace, there is a significant emphasis on giving. But I am committed to bringing a much-needed balance to the workplace—a balance of giving and receiving. This is where my journey with Abdul comes in. Abdul had much to give, and I had to be willing to receive it—no matter our differences.

Reflection

• On a scale of 1 to 10(1 is the lowest,10 is the highest), how effectively are you opening your- self up to receiving from people who are very different from you?

(Excerpt from my upcoming book, "Lessons from Abdul: The Hidden Power of Receiving from Anyone, Anytime")

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About Robb Holman

Robb Holman is a sought-after Global Keynote Speaker and Author of four transformational leadership books, Lead the Way, All In, Move the Needle, and his upcoming book, Lessons from Abdul. In recognition of his expertise, Robb was named one of the world's top 30 leadership speakers by Global Gurus for three consecutive years (2022, 2023, 2024). His innovative Inside Out Leadership philosophy has gained significant recognition and has been featured in publications like Inc, Forbes, and Fast Company. You can visit Robb by going here.