We all have needs. We all have wants. We all have dreams and goals, and things we want to accomplish. And so it would make sense if we found ourselves looking out for… well, ourselves.
And I don’t necessarily mean in a selfish way, a negative way. Sometimes we do need to keep an eye on the return for our various investments.
But today I want to bring a conversation about “being of service.” We’re no strangers to this. After all, in every meeting when Amy mentions, “and there’s a central philosophy called,” we all know the two words that follow… givers gain.
But I want to take an even closer look at the value that being of service for others can provide for us. There are three main reasons why serving others can have a tremendous impact.
First of all, people are mirrors for each other. We actually get to see a reflection of ourselves in those around us. So when we are extending ourselves to help others, who we see ourselves to be — who we experience ourselves to be — is the kind of person that makes us proud. And the feelings that come are just like those from any other esteem-able act — joy, ease, peace, hope, pride. So if nothing else, it feels good.
In addition, it has us aligned with who we want to be. I know almost every person on this Zoom. I know the kindness, the open-heartedness, the caring, the sincerity. It shows up in the meeting itself. It shows up in the rapid response times to emailed requests for information and support. We all want to be givers.
As my late Grandma Sylvia used to say, “Beauty is as beauty does.” And if we are aligned with ourselves, we are efficient and effective. And we can access more of our core resources. We don’t need to act or perform to look good. We are good. And we can feel it, and know it. It gives us a place to stand, and to act and choose from.
Lastly, our brains can’t tell the difference between actual abundance and the perception of abundance. By offering to others, we foster an experience that we have enough — even more than enough. And that brings an experience of space and freedom and capacity. And often what follows from there is gratitude.
By giving to and serving others, it not only has us honoring our commitments, it can fill our tanks, supercharge our engines, and lead to tangible results in the experience of ourselves and in the bottom lines of our businesses.
And lastly, it never hurts to do someone a kindness or a favor. People remember. And even if the details of the act fade, the memory of how we made them feel — seen, understood, supported — will not soon be forgotten.
As the meeting unfolds, consider where and how you can serve. In our Elevate community, but also anywhere else. And then come up with the next simple, but specific action to implement.
I appreciate this community. And the palpable drive to make a difference for ourselves and each other.
Let’s keep serving it up!
