The More You Give...

This Week's Mindset is: CONTRIBUTION

From what we get, we can make a living; what we give, however, makes a life. Arthur Ashe

When we extend our wisdom and vision beyond our own lives we can have a profound impact on others, the world and community we live in and ultimately our own sense of belonging and contribution. This is why having a mindset of CONTRIBUTION is such an integral part of living life to its fullest and experiencing peace and joy in the process.

Notice what happens when you shift your focus from your own perceived problems. Have you ever been having a bad day and out of the blue had the opportunity to help someone else? Maybe it was something as simple as helping them carry their groceries, offering to drive their child to an after school event, or just giving them some words of encouragement. What often happens, is that we see our impact on others and it improves our mood. It can even give us a greater sense of purpose.

In fact, studies show that people who participate in meaningful activities (such as helping others, listening to friends’ problems and/or pursuing one’s life goals) are happier and feel a greater sense of purpose in life (Michael Steger, University of Louisville in Kentucky - published in Journal of Research in Personality). This doesn’t mean you have to quit your job, take a vow of poverty and live only to serve others. What it DOES mean is that developing a mindset of contribution and generativity  (the ability to give to others) can improve the quality of your life and even your health.

 

Here are some simple suggestions for creating a mindset of contribution:

• Ask yourself daily, is there something I can do to make life easier, better or more pleasant for someone?
• Commit a ‘random act of kindness’-  something that makes a random act of kindness particularly pleasing is the anonymity of it. This helps keep your focus on the other person, rather than yourself.
• Contemplate your talents, strengths and gifts and then find ways to share them with people. Do you love making homemade note cards? Consider donating them to a local assisted living community - better yet go teach them how to make the cards themselves!
• Never underestimate the power of a KIND WORD. A well placed, authentic, meaningful compliment can change the course of someone’s day. 
• Read the Giving Tree, by Shel Silverstein. This wonderful book can enlighten and inspire you. 

This week's MyMindset questions, quotations and coaching support will all focus on your mindset of CONTRIBUTION. Sign up for a FREE TRIAL or REFER YOUR FRIENDS if you are already enjoying our service!

Hannah Hollett is a MyMindset Coach as well as a parenting, life and business coach. She can be reached for question, comments or a complimentary personal coaching consultation at hannah.hollett@myMindset.com.