Thursday Thoughts: The Long Game of Generosity

I was invited to speak at a fundraiser this week, which led me down an interesting path as I researched generosity. We often talk about giving in terms of helping others, but it turns out generosity has a powerful, often unseen, impact on the giver as well. Thinking about this made me realize how giving to others can shape not only our relationships and communities but also our lives.

Generosity, at its core, isn’t just about what we give, but our heart behind the act. There’s a verse that comes to mind: “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” ~ Proverbs 11:25. Basically, when we open ourselves up to give - whether it’s time, support, or resources - we enter into an amazing cycle of abundance. Giving allows us to step out of a scarcity mindset and see the potential around us. Research from Harvard even shows that people who are regularly generous tend to be more productive and report higher life satisfaction.

One of the biggest surprises in my research was just how much generosity can increase our own personal growth. When we give, we’re actually creating opportunities to strengthen our skills, resilience, and connections with others. When you give without expecting anything in return, you develop trust with others and find more purpose in what you do. These intangible rewards add up and can contribute to long-term success, making giving not only a good deed but a solid investment in your own growth and fulfillment.

The wonderful thing about generosity is that it extends beyond the immediate transaction. Giving builds community, and communities thrive on mutual support. When we give to causes that align with our values, we’re not just helping a single person or project, we’re building a foundation that will impact others long after we’re gone. For instance, small but meaningful contributions to community projects might feel like minor gestures, but their combined effect builds a legacy that supports future generations. It’s like the old adage of planting a tree under whose shade you may never sit; generosity is an act of faith in the future.

Generosity doesn’t just affect the person giving and receiving; it spreads out into the world. When one person gives, others are often inspired to do the same. Over time, this creates a ripple effect that touches lives in ways we may never see. As research confirms, people who make giving a regular part of their lives experience more meaningful connections and greater satisfaction. Generosity builds bridges, strengthens bonds, and has a cascading effect that can transform a community, workplace, or family.

That Leads Me to This Week’s Challenge…

This week, I challenge you to consider the “long game” of generosity. Whether it’s giving time, resources, or simply kindness, think about how your actions might impact the future. What small but intentional gestures can you offer that might spark a positive chain reaction? In a world that often focuses on immediate results, generosity reminds us that some of the most meaningful impacts happen over time.

I’m thankful you took the time to read this, for choosing to work, and for being part of what makes this world amazing.