You are a gift to others..(well almost)
Notes from the book: The Art of Possibility
Imagine you're standing in line at your favorite coffee shop, eagerly anticipating your morning caffeine fix. As you approach the counter, you notice the harried look on the barista's face as they juggle multiple orders and navigate the morning rush.
In that moment, you have a choice: you can simply place your order and go about your day, or you can seize the opportunity to make a small but meaningful contribution.
Sharing an idea from the book ‘The art of possibility’ - a concept called Contributions which changes the way you look at how the world is treating you (including your boss/family members) and flips the story.
Shift from Transactional to Transformational Contributions
In "The Art of Possibility" by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander, the concept of contribution is a central theme that transcends mere acts of giving.
What’s contribution? What’s the big deal? Well, here are the key examples in day-to-day life and how to flip the conversation from ‘What’s in for me’ to ‘here goes my contribution’:
Washing the dishes isn't just a chore; it's contributing to a clean and healthy environment for your family.
Helping a colleague with a project isn't just extra work; it's contributing to a successful team effort.
Even that five-minute phone call with a lonely friend is a contribution to their well-being.
By shifting your perspective, the mundane becomes meaningful. You realize that every action, big or small, has the potential to make a positive difference.
This reframing doesn't eliminate the challenges, but it injects purpose into the everyday grind.
You become not just a person caught in the daily whirlwind, but a contributor shaping your own world and the world around you.
Practice Generosity of Spirit
In the game of contribution you wake up each day and bask in the notion that you are a gift to others.
Generosity of spirit entails approaching life with an open heart and a willingness to give freely of ourselves, whether it be our time, resources, or compassion.
By embodying generosity in our interactions, we create an atmosphere of abundance and connection, fostering deeper relationships and a sense of shared humanity.
Expand Your Circle of Concern
Expanding our circle of concern involves transcending our narrow self-interests and extending empathy and compassion to all beings.
By recognizing the interconnectedness of humanity and embracing a broader perspective, we cultivate a sense of responsibility towards the well-being of others and the world at large, driving us to take action for the greater good.
Lead with Contribution
Leadership is not about wielding power or commanding authority; it's about inspiring and empowering others to reach their full potential.
Leading with contribution means prioritizing the growth and success of those around us, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and capable of making meaningful contributions.
Cultivate a Culture of Appreciation
Appreciation is a powerful catalyst for fostering a culture of contribution.
When we acknowledge and celebrate the efforts and accomplishments of others, we create an atmosphere of encouragement and affirmation, motivating individuals to continue striving for excellence and making positive contributions to the collective.
Harness the Power of Collective Contribution
Collective contribution involves harnessing the diverse talents, perspectives, and resources of a group to achieve shared goals and aspirations.
By fostering collaboration and inclusivity, we leverage the collective wisdom and creativity of the community, ensuring new possibilities and driving meaningful progress towards a common vision.
In "The Art of Possibility," contributions are not just acts of altruism; they are transformative forces that have the power to enrich our lives, elevate our relationships, and create a more compassionate and interconnected world.
So..what are you contributing today?