It’s been a busy and grateful week. Here are 7 ways of giving while not depleting oneself (in fact, getting rewarded in some cases):
1. I participated in a white elephant gift giving at a party. I received a gift that someone else wanted – some candles that matched her decor. I offered to exchange with her so she could have mine. Hers was coffee, which I wouldn’t mind having. I also saw someone who received a red, glass olive oil bottle that she didn’t want. I asked if she wanted the coffee I now had. She didn’t want either but gave me the olive oil bottle. She said it made her happy to do so. Everyone was happy and I went home with 2 gifts, though I had brought 1.
2. I enjoyed designing holiday cards that my husband’s company printed. I sent 200 cards to clients, family and friends. I’ve received many compliments and return cards back. One person is in Asia and has offered to help me plan my next trip there. Another client realized it was time for a coaching session.
3. I exchanged a Social Networking session with Barbara Giamanco of Talent Builders and gave her an hour coaching session. She loved it and in turn sent a wonderful blog out to all of her vast LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook networks about my upcoming Vision Board workshop (www.theawarenessinitiative.com/speaking.php) and wrote me a recommendation. Can’t wait to recommend her, as well. Social networking is a win-win, give-give situation. Love it.
4. I did a coaching session for a client today who is very financially challenged. I didn’t feel comfortable taking her money and told her that. Instead I gave her motivation to pay me. I said she will owe me the money and pay me when she follows the advice of the session and is on her way to success. Delaying payment was a gift to her. Her payment will be a double gift to me, showing me she’s doing well and is successful.
5. I had an event to go to tonight, but a client asked me to do a coaching session with her daughter. I didn’t tell the client that I had a previous engagement. Instead, I opted to give the session as it was clear the daughter needed it. It seemed the right thing to do. And it was. I was blessed with meeting a wonderful person and enjoyed the session at least as much as she did. It was a real blessing, and more fulfilling than the event would have been.
6. I was asked to go to lunch with a friend so that she could solicit a donation to her favorite charity. I went, had a delicious lunch, enjoyed her company and donated. The conversation progressed and unsolicited she mentioned a friend who was needing some coaching. She’s going to refer her to me.
7. Here’s one from my husband: I gave the Salvation Army bell ringer at the Kroger a cup of coffee and a sandwich. I’ve been told that they aren’t allowed to carry their own money. It was cold and he couldn’t leave his post. My gift was the heartwarming joy of giving and his grateful smile.