
I was one of those people always "doing for others" - to the point of complete exhaustion and burnout. Then I started to ask myself, "why give back"?
I learned that contributing to others may be one of the most practical ways we can contribute to ourselves. It can make our lives more interesting, fulfilling and fun. And we may find that problems we used to worry about get handled or disappear.....if we do it right.
1 - We have to take care of ourselves. Feeling inadequate, inferior or exhausted gets in the way of service. So it's important to give enough to generate energy and excitement, not exhaustion. We can find ways to contribute in areas that align with our purpose, vision and abilities - so it doesn't become a drain.
2 - We must give from desire, not obligation. If we give to others because we think we “should” or that we’ll get something in return, we end up resentful.
3 - It's important to not assume we know what’s good for another person. Trust their judgment about what is good for them.
4 - There are lots of ways to give back - money, time, and/or talent. And it doesn't always need to be some major cause. One Pursue U member is the President of the Dance Company at her university. She mentors freshman girls who enter the dance program. That is giving back!
Stay tuned for ideas on how to give back and stories of Pursue U members who are doing so!