Selfish or Selfless?
“Many people have the “what’s in it for me” mentality, which is why they are less likely to connect with other people of influence.”
-Brandon T. Adams / The Road to Success: How to Achieve Success in Business, Life, and Love
Wow. I want you to read that quote one more time, then stop and ask yourself if you have the “What’s in it for me?” mentality. If we are honest with ourselves, we all probably could nod our heads up and down…
Though there is conflicting research on whether humans are meant to be naturally selfish or selfless, society has us leaning more towards the selfish side.
Selfish /’selfiSH/ adjective:? lacks consideration for others and tends to be concerned mainly with one’s own personal profit or pleasure.?
Selfless /?selfl?s/ adjective: concerned more with the needs and wishes of others than with one's own; unselfish
Being surrounded by someone who is selfless sounds ten times better than doing business or investing in someone who is the opposite. However, too many of us think that if we are selfless, we will not achieve our goals. If we are constantly giving, how can we possibly get anything in return??
That is where we must shift our thought process. What if we focused on the concerns of others and genuinely tried to add value to their life versus having an agenda of our own?
Well, for one, our society would probably look a lot different. But, for two, our ability to network, build relationships and just live a fuller life would be so much better. I actually can ensure you that your overall life would improve.?
How? Because I applied this mentality to my life a few years ago and I can promise you that I haven’t looked back since.?
Most of us are smart and intellectually advanced.?
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We can tell when someone has an ulterior motive...?
We can sense if someone is being disingenuous…
…and our initial reaction is to run in the opposite direction.
Be #different ?
Create an atmosphere that attracts people to you.
Be #selfless
I challenge you for this week to go into one important conversation with the thought, “How can I add value to this person?” This conversation may be your next big sales pitch, or it may be with a significant other. Whichever one, take the step back to really listen, be empathetic, and try to make their life better.?
Next, prepare for the outcome to be mind-blowing.
Best,