We Always Get Back More Than We Give
Over a 18-months ago I started being intentional about offering up 1:1 meetings with women and men who were looking to “start something new.” It could be just about anything - a business, a career, a hobby, a new family. I was looking to start a new business concept myself, developing immersive books for Gen Z. I know just how important encouragement can be for spurring one on.
During those early months, I met two women - Caroline and Emily, who have a consultancy - The Daughters United. They are personally and professionally dedicated to helping women and girls by creating a safer more connected community. From coaching and mentoring to producing workshops and live events, as they say in their own words, “We have seen the problems women and girls face every day. It’s time for a change.”
They are a force of nature, so I’ve been thrilled to stay in touch with them, to watch them be a true agent for change in North London and more. We scheduled a call this week and jumped on a Zoom to chat. I got to hear about the work they did for the Fore Street For All initiative in London, featuring a thought-provoking panel discussion on women’s safety in public spaces. I also got to hear about the inevitable struggles that any small business is sure to face as it grows.
For these ladies, they believe that leaning on their faith but keeping it practical, is one of the keys to keeping their work moving forward. They are making a name for themselves in the remarkably competitive arena of community work, all while navigating local politics. None of this is unusual, but what I was struck by was their steady, calm demeanor, and their conviction that they are doing important work.
After an hour with them I was so inspired, by their professional approach to their work, their honesty regarding their hurdles, and their sense that what they are doing matters, no matter what the cost. And as they were talking, all I could think was how BLESSED I was to have this opportunity to hear from THEM! Giving my time was actually giving me a much-needed boost. I was watching their progress as they learned to stretch their craft, all while being patient through the process. Watch this space, they are going to shake up their sector in the years to come.
Here are some tips on how to have a give-back mentality:
When helping someone ask lots of questions to understand their POV. You might be surprised by what YOU learn in the process, along with dignifying the person with your curiosity and care.
Don’t always be looking for “what’s in it for me.” This is a more natural response than any of us like to admit, but it will stop you from experiencing a meaningful interaction.
Be willing to sacrifice your time. Time truly is money these days, it’s even connected to our mental well-being. I don’t take the giving of my time lightly. If I’m spread too thin, there isn’t enough of me to go around. So, when I give my time to others I recognize that it is a precious gift that I am willing to give.
Be adventurous with your giving. True. Sometimes you need to go where the need is in order to help. And sometimes those little off-beat paths yield the most interesting moments in life.