“Give More Than You Ask For: The Essence of Building Genuine Connections”

written by @Tam Lawrence

A wise man once shared with me a simple yet profound principle: “Give more than you ask for.” This timeless wisdom has stayed with me, becoming a mantra I repeat daily. It’s a philosophy that has found a special place in both my personal and professional life. At its core, it underscores the belief that you can’t earnestly request something from others if you’re not willing to reciprocate in kind.

In today’s digitally interconnected world, this principle often comes to mind, especially when navigating the realm of social media. How many times have you received inbox messages from individuals asking for something they themselves have never considered giving? It’s a common scenario, where someone reaches out to discuss how their service or offering could benefit your business, yet they’ve never shown any interest in your content, posts, or activities on social media. It’s as if they expect something for nothing.

This practice raises intriguing questions about reciprocity and engagement. What drives a person to ask for something they’re not willing to give in return? Such requests can sometimes come across as rude, impersonal, and lacking in consideration for the other party.

The fundamental truth here is that you cannot ask for what you’re not willing to give. It’s a principle that extends beyond the digital realm and into our daily interactions. Whether in business or in personal relationships, it’s a reminder that genuine connections are built on a foundation of mutual respect and reciprocity.

Consider this scenario: you receive an inbox message on a professional networking platform like LinkedIn. The message seems automated, a product of artificial intelligence, triggered the moment you accept a connection request. While AI has its place, it can’t replace the authenticity of human interaction. What’s truly intriguing, after all, is the human experience.

As we embrace technological advancements, there’s a risk of becoming more robotic in our interactions. Business, however, thrives when it maintains a personal touch. When you engage with someone on a human level, it’s a clear sign that you’re not just interested in their money but in building a lasting and meaningful relationship.

Over the years, I’ve given considerable thought to rehumanizing how I engage with others. I believe in the power of giving, and I ask for consideration only from those I’ve supported in some way. It may take more time to nurture such relationships, but they are the ones that endure and yield the most fruitful results.

In conclusion, the key to achieving positive outcomes in our interactions and relationships is simple: consider the other party and offer your support before you seek theirs. By embodying the principle of giving more than you ask for, we create a world where genuine connections thrive, and everyone benefits from the richness of mutually supportive relationships.