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In this day and age, it is now even more important to give back to society. There are so many social issues and causes that need our support, and giving of ourselves and through our businesses has so many benefits.
I think back about my parents who grew up during the depression. They thought nothing of giving food to homeless people who came by searching for work and food… at a time when food was not that abundant.
In business, giving back to address a social cause has a profound impact.
The benefits to the business can include:
1. It generates a feel good mentality and higher purpose.
Knowing that what you are promoting will help address an important issue creates a positive impact, improves one’s attitude, generates motivation and commitment. It can make you more engaged with what you do, and an engaged person is a more productive person. Finally, it reminds us about how fortunate we are and what we have.
2. It improves stature and visibility.
Knowing that your company is serious about addressing a global or national issue, places it a step ahead of the others. It shows that it is more than just about making money.
3. It can help with recruitment.
In network marketing we are always looking for new people to join us. The fact that you have a company that cares, is giving back and wants to help others (besides themselves) may resonate with your prospects. They may want to be part of a bigger purpose than just promoting a service or product.
4. It can make an immediate difference in someone’s life.
Yes, it does make a difference in someone’s life, especially if it is a direct and immediate type of giving back. Many companies have a adopted a business model that allows for donation before profit. This means the commitment does not require the company to make a profit first. TOMS shoes is one such company where a purchase of a pair of shoes, results with a pair of shoes given to a child in need.
Today there are many companies, network marketing and traditional businesses that see the value of having a higher purpose or mission than just making a profit. These companies include: Evolvhealth, TOMS Shoes, Warby Parker, STATE Bags, Esperos Bags, Michael Kors, and many others. To them, it’s all about creating a social business to address a social issue.
Giving back should not be just a business initiative. We should all be giving back in some way.
I believe it should be part of our life!
“When I chased after money, I never had enough. When I got my life on purpose and focused on giving of myself and everything that arrived into my life, then I was prosperous.” – Wayne Dyer
Why?
Because studies have shown that there are amazing benefits to giving, whether it is donating, volunteering or simply doing a random act of kindness. We feel better about ourselves knowing that we have helped someone.
Giving reminds me of the story of the boy and the starfish. Walking along the beach he would stop and pick up a starfish that had washed up on the shore and throw it back into the sea. An old man who was watching, asked the boy why he was doing this. The boy responded that the starfish cannot get back to the sea by themselves and will dry out in the sun and die. The old man replied that “there must be tens of thousands of starfish on this beach. You really won’t be able to make much of a difference.” The boy bent down, picked up yet another starfish and threw it as far as he could into the ocean. Then he turned, smiled and said, “It made a difference to that one!” (from The Star Thrower by Loren Eiseley).
So giving can begin with the simplest of actions. Or it can be complex depending on the type of giving.
Here are some things to consider:
1. Donate.
This can be money, it can be clothing, it can be books, it can be used furniture, it can be food. Anything you can donate can make a difference. Why throw something in the garbage if someone else who is not as well off could use it? Why not give some money to a worthwhile charity? Why not buy some food at the grocery store and give it to the food bank? Why not support organizations that support children developmental programs? It is so each to do and to not do. Commit to giving back.
2. Volunteer your time.
Help out at School, be a big brother or sister, work at an orphanage, join a food bank, canvass for worthwhile causes, give blood, assist seniors in need, share your skills, run, bike, swim, do anything to raise awareness and money. Its all about applying yourself and physically doing something to help others. Besides making an profound impact on someone else, you will become more visible, respected and admired in your community for doing this.
3. Adopt.
Adopting a child in need is one of the most remarkable and giving actions that a couple can do. Giving a young person the opportunity to live a better life is one of the most un-selfish acts one can do.. But it is not always possible or realistic for everyone. So why not adopt an animal in need? There are so many animals out there that need to be rescued. So why not make a difference in their life? I guarantee it will make a difference in yours! We recently got ours through this website: theshelterpetproject.org
4. Mentor and coach.
Finally mentoring and coaching young people can have an everlasting impact. You can change their lives through your attention and guidance, and you will change your life too! Many young people are lost, unsure and don’t know where to go. You can be a shining light in their darkness.
Today, take the time to think about how you can give back, whether it is through your business or through your own personal initiative. Life is short. Don’t regret later in life that you did not give of yourself, because “Giving changes everything.”
So be a “Star Thrower” and remember. . .
“Never get tired of doing the little things for others. Sometimes those little things occupy the biggest part of their hearts.” – Unknown
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