Thoughts On Giving

December 18, 2007

Pursuit of Happiness: Money

Many experts on personal finance, money management, and building wealth teach a common theme. They say giving is an important part of the foundation to a healthy relationship with money.

I say “relationship with money” because they write about money as a force, something along the lines of a river. It can be directed and respected but not trapped—at least not for long. Doesn’t that sound wacky? I know! It’s kind of hard to wrap your brain around. 

But they each learned this principle before becoming wealthy, so it’s a core of what they teach about understanding money. They say grabbing at money, chasing after it, or holding to it tightly tends to cause it to flee. Respecting it, directing it wisely, and sharing it with others brings more to you.

If you’re still not ready to accept this idea, there are many other sound reasons that giving can be a good part of your life on a regular basis. Don’t give just so your teenagers can have iPods, cell phones, and cars. How about these not-as-wacky thoughts about the value of giving?

·      Giving helps put your situation in perspective when you start thinking about other people’s needs.

·      Giving promotes gratitude in you.

·      Giving what you can, even a little once in a while, builds a habit and mindset of giving.

·      Giving makes it easier to see the difference between wants and needs.

·      Giving promotes a mentality of abundance instead of scarcity.

·      Giving is a significant part of many faiths and philosophical traditions because it develops maturity and character.

·      Giving is fun!

Posted in Pursuit of Happiness: Money, Zine 3: December 2007, Zines in 2007