I engaged in a very pleasant conversation with a young lady who shared with me that she was going through a bit of a life crisis. Well, this just happens to be something I know something about!?! I gave her some of my coaching tips for ‘free.’ My only motivation was to impart information that would possibly help her to make sense of what she was going through and what to expect along the way. She was amazed and grateful. It was not until later that I realized how much I take what I know for granted. The information I had for her, which I somehow assume everyone has access to, really was ‘news’ to her. News she could use.
The second lady is an Italian grandma and a while ago, she dropped off some bread dough to the place where I work part time and she is a client. It made the best bread I’d ever tasted. I then called her to tell her that I would like the recipe or could I pay her to make dough for me. She couldn’t give me the recipe because, of course, she doesn’t measure anything! She called me this past weekend to say that she’d made dough, to come and get some. I wasted no time going over to her house. She sat me down and gave me heavenly espresso and fresh focaccia bread that had just departed her oven. Mamma Mia! I thoroughly enjoyed it all. But more than anything, I enjoyed getting to know this Italian matriarch. We talked like family. I’ve decided she is my new aunt. She is newly widowed and seems a bit lost and lonely right now. She seemed to really appreciate my visit. I believe I came away with more than I gave. Giving my time to be with her was no kind of sacrifice. In both cases I received more than I gave.
All this to say that I’ve discovered that what I ‘give’ naturally is important. For whatever reason, and tell me where I’m wrong, we assume that because it comes naturally or easily that what we do, give, are, isn’t important. We assume everyone can do what we do. Or, that it has to be work. But this is simply not true. If you don’t know what your strengths, your gifts are, ask your friends, those who work with you. You may be surprised that they are not what you think they are. And then, when they tell you, go forth and do that thing you do! When you give that thing you do, it will feel good, guaranteed.
I am more inspired than ever to offer my telecourses! It is now launched and ready for action!
Check out my main page for all the details! And sign up! Please.