Why are we not more Generous?
The other day I was brushing my teeth and I was about to throw away the tube when I thought to myself, I wonder how much is left? 11 days later I am still getting toothpaste out! The tube recommends 50 uses. I nearly moved on with 20% of the tube still there. It made me think this simple thought: “You have more than you thought.”
It can be easy to get caught up in a culture that diminishes what we have. Engaging in a pursuit of always needing more, consuming more than we need and even using these activities to make ourselves feel better. The term “Retail Therapy” has become common place in our world. Retail Therapy might make us feel better by purchasing things but it is temporary and not effective at addressing the bigger issues that might be causing the behavior.
Paul writes a rich piece of advice that addresses the mindsets we have towards what we own. In it, He recognizes that God is the source of everything we own, that the way we live is connected to our attitude of generosity. He also makes a clear distinction between what is to be given and what is to be consumed (bread for food and seed to sow) and in all of it recognizes the power our provision gives us to influence other people’s lives.
8-11 "God can pour on the blessings in astonishing ways so that you’re ready for anything and everything, more than just ready to do what needs to be done. As one psalmist puts it, He throws caution to the winds, giving to the needy in reckless abandon. His right-living, right-giving ways never run out, never wear out. This most generous God who gives seed to the farmer that becomes bread for your meals is more than extravagant with you. He gives you something you can then give away, which grows into full-formed lives, robust in God, wealthy in every way, so that you can be generous in every way, producing with us great praise to God."
Generosity Therapy: A better way to do Business
Giving to others is a simple yet powerful act that can have a positive impact on both the giver and the recipient. Research shows that generosity can benefit our physical, mental, and emotional well-being, and enhance our relationships with others.
These benefits extend to you as a person and to your business:
1. Increased Happiness
Generosity has been linked to increased levels of happiness and well-being. When you give to others, it can bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose that can boost your mood. Happiness in the work place has been shown to boost productivity, fulfillment and collaboration.
2. Improved Relationships
Generosity can also improve your relationships with others. When you are generous, you show that you care and are willing to go the extra mile to help others. This can lead to stronger bonds and more meaningful connections with the people in your life. Relationships are the key to business. Generosity might be the greatest way to network.
3. Reduced Stress
Giving can also help reduce stress levels. Helping others can take the focus off of your own problems and concerns and give you a sense of perspective and purpose. When we reduce the level of stress our decision-making ability is greatly enhanced.
4. Increased Gratitude
When you are generous, you often receive gratitude in return. This can help you appreciate what you have and feel more grateful for the good things in your life. Here are some of the great benefits of Gratitude in the workplace.
5. Improved Physical Health
Generosity has also been linked to improved physical health. Studies have found that people who give to others have lower blood pressure, reduced stress levels, and a lower risk of heart disease.
If you were offered a single solution that would offer all these positive results would you take it? Generosity Therapy might just be the thing you need most in your life and business.
