You are where you are today because you stood on somebody’s shoulders. And wherever you are heading, you cannot get there by yourself. If you stand on the shoulders of others, you have a reciprocal responsibility to live your life so that others may stand on your shoulders. It’s the quid pro quo of life. We exist temporarily through what we take, but we live forever through what we give.
Vernon Jordan – American Business Executive
Success that is focused on self is short lived and has little impact. You can have success financially in the short term without giving, but it will not have significance without giving.
Giving allows us to create a win/win outcome, it allows us to go deeper into our values and create solutions that others will care about, and benefit from, in a sustainable manner. Serving others ensures that we are connected in meaningful ways and therefore mindful of the needs of others as we make decisions, create new products/services, and as we impact the community around us.
Many people talk about demonstrating respect for others. We provide respect and uplift those around us when we truly serve others. When we do this well, success will be the by-product, and will enrich our lives and our work.
Success as a leader requires influencing others, and causing them to follow. People want to follow those who understand and serve their needs and interests, as well as giving you their very best.
How are you serving those around you? Take that first step to listen to, and invest in, people and watch how successful you become.