Getting To Give

They say that “it is better to give than to receive.” This statement is true not because giving is the right thing to do. This statement is true because there is truly more joy in giving to someone else than receiving from them. Knowing this, the lesson is that while from time to time others do things for us (give us gifts, provide us referrals or even just lift our spirits), by graciously accepting these things, we are in a sense giving back to them. The gift of receiving from others in a genuine and appreciative manner is a very real part of altruism. Frank Agin, Foundational Networking.

Giving Means Never Being Unwilling To Say Thank You

While saying “thank you” to someone is generally done in consideration for something they have done for us, taking the time to say “thank you” makes them feel good. So in essence, when we say thank you, we are giving to others and being altruistic in the process. Frank Agin, Foundational Networking.

A Sense Of Compassion

No matter how bad off we might have it, the reality is that someone likely has it worse. With that, a simple key to infusing our lives with altruism is looking around for these people. Then once we find them, in our mind (if nothing else) we should put ourselves in their situation … understand their struggles … experience their feelings. From here, we can certainly find a means of – even if only temporarily – easing their heartache or bringing joy to them. Frank Agin, Foundational Networking.

I Would Like You To Meet...

Often the most valuable thing we have to offer those in our network is our network itself. In other words, an introduction to someone else can provide lasting, almost-immeasurable benefits. Referred to as “The Baldzicki Factor” in Frank Agin’s book Foundational Networking, when we introduce people within our network to others, we literally set in motion a lifetime of new contacts, a wealth of information and gateways to thousands of dollars in business.

I Remember You!

When we take the time to remember someone’s name, we indicate to him or her that we value the connection with him or her and that he or she has had a sufficient impression on us. When we endeavor to spell and pronounce a name correctly, we subtly imply the person’s importance. In short, these simple acts make them feel important, which serves to endear them to us, building the relationship.

Use The F Word

According to Frank Agin, in his book Foundational Networking, a way to build trust and bolster our integrity in others is to routinely offer forgiveness. By forgiving others they become more comfortable dealing with us, knowing that we will eventually look past their errors and shortcomings.

The Tapestry Of Success

The next time you hear someone else dismissing the problem of another as “not concerning them,” remind them that everyone is a vital thread in our tapestry of success. We are all connected. When one of us succeeds, we all profit. When one of us is threatened, we are all at risk. Frank Agin, Foundational Networking.