How would you describe the process of adding value to other?
This week I had breakfast with the guys from my Master Mind book study group. We have been using Leader Shift by John Maxwell (2019) as our exploration into leadership and growth. For one of the chapters, we discussed adding value to others. Many of the group members have church as a common interest. As we discussed value, we often had money in mind as an example of giving to others. Many of us had experiences of giving in the form of paying someone’s bill at a restaurant or paying for the people behind you at the grocery stores and fast-food drive-up windows. All are great example of blessing others. In our conversations we discovered that the individuals giving felt more blessed than the ones receiving. We also talked of how difficult it is to receive something for nothing. Our biggest discovery was that giving value to others isn’t all about money. It can and should be more than that.
Our day-to-day interactions show we value those around us. When you pass people in the halls or on the street are you greeting them with a positive smile or conversation? Often, our encounters are seen as either positive or negative depending on someone’s view of the situation. We smiled or didn’t smile; we took time to visit, or we simply passed them by. That brief interaction can set the tone for the day. When we value people, we stop and greet them with a good morning or something. Our positive interactions tell others that we care for them and value their presence. This is the easiest way to bring value to those around us, and it doesn’t cost us anything. Bring value to others with a positive and personal exchange as often as possible
Our time is a value we take for granted that could be the most valuable for others. Are you willing to spend your time helping others with their needs? Giving of our time is most meaningful when someone really needs it. Whether it’s helping with a project at work or in a moment of grief during a difficult time. Time is something valuable for everyone and if we are busy, it’s the most valuable currency. Giving our time away to help others is very difficult but so worth it to those around us. Give time to others even when you think you can’t afford it and you will discover that you will feel blessed for doing so.
In our work we can add value to others by offering learning opportunities. My Master Mind groups have offered growth and learning to those involved. If you lead an organization or team, you must provide growth opportunities that will bring more value to the team and organizations you serve. Growth opportunities come in a variety of forms, and they don’t necessarily have to be grand or large moments only meaningful for the people and the organization. Our plan to give others value should occur frequently and not in a signal dose. We shouldn’t start the year or initiative with one learning opportunity but rather sprinkle the value-giving learning throughout the year or a given period.
We cannot provide value to others until we value ourselves. Growing yourself each day will allow you to provide more opportunities for others. Our value or belief in ourselves is key to bringing value to those around you. If we lack confidence in ourselves, we will not be able to instill this confidence and value into others. Take flying on an airplane for example. If we lose oxygen in the cabin, we are told to put our masks on before helping others. If we don’t see value in who we are or what we do in any situation or organization, we can’t bring value to others. We must bring value to ourselves first. Think of the values you have and make it a priority to add value to yourself today.
How are you greeting people to show you value them?
How are you spending time with the people you value?
Where are you providing growth opportunities to others within your organization?
What value do you give yourself and your abilities?
The value you bring is so important to our world and our communities. Bringing value to others is the best way to live life because if we seek to help our fellow man the more valuable, we become. I appreciate those around me in my organization, community, family, and the readers who check out my blog. I hope you take the opportunity today, to find value in everything around you. Have an amazing week as you discover the value you bring!
Steven C. Bucks- Leading Conversations
