When you think of the word giving, do you instantly think of birthdays and Christmas gifts? The true art of giving is to give with the heart without expectation of a return. We can only give away a limited amount of material possessions, fortunately generosity and kindness are not bound to these material limitations. Two books I have read recently have opened my eyes to the way I view the art of giving. ‘The Go Giver’, and ‘365 Thank yous’.

“As long as you’re trying to be someone else, or putting on some act or behaviour someone else taught you, you have no possibility of truly reaching people. The most valuable thing you have to give people is yourself. No matter what you think you’re selling, what you’re really offering is you.”
Bob Burg and John David MannThe Go Giver: A Little Story About A Powerful Business Idea

“Your true worth is determined by how much more you give in value than you take in payment.” Joe”
Bob BurgThe Go-Giver: A Little Story About a Powerful Business Idea

“I would try to find one person to thank each day. One person to whom I would write a thank-you note. By the end of the year, I would have used up the stationery. I would have written 365 thank yous.”
John KralikA Simple Act of Gratitude: How Learning to Say Thank You Changed My Life

Both books have different messages, but one thing stays strong, if you are open and willing to put other people first and cater to their needs, you will be rewarded greatly in the long run. It is one of life’s wonderful paradoxes that you limit the power of giving by having an expectation of getting something in return. Giving creates a pattern of happiness, joy and love in your life. What you give out is what comes back in direct proportions to the feelings you have in the act of giving. Have a great day everyone.