Practicing Generosity

Giving back is one of the most rewarding things that we can do as human beings. There is something deeply fulfilling about helping others and contributing to the well-being of our communities. However, being a generous giver is not always easy. In a world that values material possessions and individualism, it takes practice and intention to cultivate a generous spirit. But the good news is that anyone can become a generous giver, and the benefits are endless.

Researchers have found that practicing generosity promotes physical and psychological health, greater longevity, increased happiness, higher perceived quality of life, and better relationships. In other words, generosity is good for us!

How can we practice generosity with others, especially during times and situations when we could succumb to fear?

How to Practice Generosity

1. Make a list of five things for which you are grateful today. You may have some previous experience with such a gratitude list; this time notice the change in yourself—in your energy field—as you write. See if you can feel your fearful self actually shifting to your loving self. Notice that all of those items on your list were gifts to you from some other hand. Consider yourself as a Sea of Galilee with the joyful responsibility of sharing with others what you have received from others.

2. Small kindnesses can have enormous impact on how others feel. Instead of limiting your outreach to special times of year like holidays or birthdays, reach out to family, friends, or even strangers randomly to let them know you are thinking of them and are sending love their way. It might be just a quick text or voice mail. It might be a card or the gift of a visit. Perhaps it is the gift of a smile; I am amazed at how my day changes when I smile and speak to strangers. First, their face almost always responds by mirroring my smile; they look like the person they want to look like—a person who is loved. Second, my own day changes when realizing that strangers can be generous to one another and feel a kinship simply by greeting one another with a smile. I believe this simple act also reduces the overall amount of stress in the world.

3. Shift your mindset. Generosity starts with the way that we think about ourselves and the world around us. If you want to become a more generous giver, start by shifting your mindset towards abundance, gratitude, and empathy. This means seeing the world as a place of abundance, where there is enough for everyone. It also means practicing gratitude for what you have and cultivating empathy for those who are less fortunate. By adopting this mindset, you will start to see opportunities for giving all around you.

4. Practice intentional giving. To be a generous giver, it is important to create a habit of intentional giving. This means setting aside time, money or resources specifically for the purpose of contributing to others. It could mean volunteering at a local charity, donating money to a cause that you care about, or simply doing something kind for someone else each day. Whatever it is, make sure that you are intentional and consistent in your giving.

5. Give without expectation. Giving with the expectation of receiving something in return is not true generosity. If you want to be a generous giver, learn to give freely and without expectation. This means that you give simply for the joy of contributing to others, without any strings attached. When you give without expectation, you open yourself up to a world of possibilities and you create a positive ripple effect in your community.

6. Lead by example. One of the most powerful ways to be a generous giver is to lead by example. If you have children, for example, make sure that they see you giving and contributing to others. This will plant the seed of generosity in their own hearts and inspire them to give back as well. You can also lead by example in your workplace, community or social circle. By being a role model for others, you can create a culture of being generosity giver that benefits everyone. Volunteer your talent to an organization that speaks to your passion.

7. Help someone feel loved and cared for by listening to their views or concerns. Sometimes the best way we can practice generosity is by being generous with our time. Oftentimes that can mean simply listening to someone else without judgement. Listen to your family and friends and practice being generous.