The Gift of Giving

Recently, I was on a mission to eliminate needless clutter from my garage when I came across a box that was a bit heavy. After clearing off the cobwebs, I pulled it into the open to review the contents. Ensuring that I was not caught unaware by a spider ready to fight for its territory or some other critter lurking in the shadows of the cardboard, I cautiously opened the top. To my surprise, I had stumbled across a box of old books that I had forgotten about from a move several years before.

The very top book caught my eye and I picked it up to peruse through the contents. It was by Og Mandino. Many people remember Og as a legendary speaker, author, coach and motivator. This particular book was entitled "The Greatest Salesmen in the World." A very easy read, Og's work covers ten timeless lessons that anyone in sales will benefit from.

In my mind, there is one message I believe stands out above all. This is the message of Giving. As I think about the concept of giving, I‘m reminded that it is far too easy for us to get caught up in our daily routines and forget that if we give unto others we will be in a better position to receive. Og taught us that we should live each day for that day and to give all that we can. Not because we expect a return, but because it will enrich us mentally, physically, emotionally and even financially at times.

I have decided to make it a point to find ways that I may incorporate this lesson into my daily work. One way is for me to remember to send a prospect or client an article or resource that will help them in some way. I can also give back by taking a few moments to follow-up with past clients, without them having to contact me for anything in particular.

I remember when I worked for a nonprofit organization, I was extremely grateful to the busy men and women who found time to help out. I was always amazed that the people who were willing to give the most were oftentimes the most successful men and women in the local business community.

After transferring the box of books into a more presentable storage container I meandered over to my local library. The librarian smiled as I handed over the books. I must admit that I kept Og's book and provided it a new home on the bookshelf in my study. One day I will part with it when I find someone who will cherish its contents and can benefit greatly from a small gift on my part. Until then, I am left to wonder if fate had a hand in this rediscovery of a classic work by a legendary motivator.

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