In the week since my friend and colleague @LorraineFlower and I published our second book – Heartful Business: leading with the world in mind – we’ve been on the receiving end of others’ generosity in supporting its first steps out into the world for which we are immensely grateful. This well of support got me thinking about the quality of being generous and what it unlocks.
Of course we live, though it doesn’t always feel like it at times, in a beautiful and bountiful world. We are enveloped in the generosity of nature though we may not always recognise, respect and be grateful for the way it feeds us – literally and at a soul level.
The thing is generosity is a powerful force, it uplifts both the recipient and the giver so bringing it to the fore in our day-to-day leadership and lives is a worthwhile investment.
Generosity comes in many forms. Dictionary definitions suggest it is about kindness, or can be about volume/size. This one particularly strikes a chord: ‘…involves giving to others not simply anything in abundance but rather giving those things that are good for others. Generosity always intends to enhance the true wellbeing of those to whom it gives.’
As leaders perhaps the greatest generosity in our gift is being generous with our time and attention, irrespective of the demands of the ‘to do’ list. This brings us into deeper understanding, connection and relationship with others. It lets them know they are valued and that we have their best interests at heart. Trust flourishes in this climate. An example is set for those around us to follow, strengthening relationships across our team and beyond.
From this base we can start to build the greater collaboration that unlocks creativity. And we will likely begin to notice latent or, as yet, untapped talents in others that can be brought into service of the organisation and allow people greater and more fulfilling expression of their capabilities.