Be a “Go-Giver” #40DaysOfGiving

My entire life has been spent as a “go-getter” – climbing a professional or social ladder, working to close the next sale or charitable gift, working on the next goal or accomplishment…and I’ve always been praised for it. And most of the time I’ve even been proud of it.

But a dear friend gave me a book recently, “The Go-Giver” and I realized that what I desire to be is actually a “go-giver.” Don’t misunderstand…I’ve done some nice things along the way on this path I call life, but I’ve spent years trying to prove myself in the corporate world and always trying to please others.  I’ve finally realized it’s not about pleasing others. It’s only about pleasing God.

By being a “go-giver” rather than a “go-getter,” I am doing my part to make the world a better place. My involvement with Rotary is certainly the most obvious way I give back. But not everyone is a “joiner” or part of a 1.2 million member worldwide network (and quite honestly, if you’ve heard me speak, you know I don’t believe everyone should be in Rotary…but that’s another story). But there are literally millions of ways to give back.

During this season of Lent, practice being a “go-giver” – do something nice for someone who needs it…a friend, family member, neighbor or co-worker – or even a stranger. I am certain you’ll be “pleased” with how great it makes you feel to do for others.

This past week I had the opportunity to take a free vacation with friends and business associates. I worked hard to earn the trip, as did everyone else who went, and it was nice to get away. But I am reminded of how many “go-givers” were on this trip with me…the friend who bought me dinner in the airport for no apparent reason (“because I want to,” she said)…the friends who picked me up before sunrise and let me ride with them to the airport so I didn’t have to go alone…friends who went above and beyond for no reason other than because they could!

I’m blessed to have so many “go-givers” in my life. I know you are too! I’ll admit I haven’t started reading the book yet (I’m almost finished with another and this one is next), but I’m already intrigued and looking forward to it.

What They’re Saying About You

Social media has become such an integral part of our lives that many times we don’t give a second thought to what we’re posting, liking or sharing. I am constantly telling young people to consider what they put on their Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages because future employers may be looking. But what about those of us already employed or active members of society? Does it not apply to us as well?

Take a few minutes to look through your social media pages. Go ahead. Do it right now. I’ll wait. Ok just kidding – do it after you finish reading this! Here’s your challenge… look at the pictures you’ve posted over the past few weeks. Now look at the pictures your friends have posted and tagged you in.

Are you always at a party or holding a drink in your hand? Are you smooching on your loved one? Complaining about your aches and pains?  Worse yet, venting about your boss or co-workers? Sharing “questionable” jokes or cartoons?

Even though these activities and events may not define you in real life, they may online. Is that the image you want to portray? Do you really need to share EVERYthing you do, say or think? It’s hard sometimes to decide what to share and what not to. And sometimes we get wrapped up in the moment & agree with a “friend” complaining about the DMV.

But would you be a part of that conversation in front of your boss, preacher or in-laws? Maybe you just were. Because whether they “follow” you or not, what is online is permanent. And that isn’t just a lesson for teenagers and college students. Us adults could stand to remember it every once in a while too.