“Out of what I had received in my development, I was also able to give. The confidence I gained from personal growth gave me credibility and made me believe I could start developing others. And in that, I found life’s greatest joy and reward.”
Isn’t one of the most satisfying things seeing the success and growth of those you invested in at one point? John Maxwell explains in The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth that by growing yourself, you’re enabled to grow others.
However, even when you are generous with your knowledge and skill, you must be intentional in your efforts to add value to others. Positive qualities we possess can be multiplied when we cultivate an attitude of contribution.
Check out this list of 7 ways to develop a mind-set dedicated to growing others:
1. Be Grateful
“I am the recipient of many benefits that I do not deserve and did not earn. Someone else paid for them. I am grateful! How do I show my gratitude? By daily pouring into others and passing on to them the things that will allow them to run far and achieve beyond what I have done.”
Something we know and believe is that no one succeeds alone. It is our calling to pass along the development and influence we have received over our lifetime. In paying it forward, we can multiply our efforts, trusting that those we lead will also work to grow others.
2. Put People First
“People continue on. What you give to help others builds them up enough that they are able to give to others. It’s a cycle that can continue on long after you’re dead and gone.”
When you think of successes in your life, what do you remember? Likely you remember the people with whom you shared those wins. People are a huge part of our lives, and as leaders, our actions impact so many. By building our people up and putting them first, we show that they are valuable and worthy of great growth.
“Contributors take the stuff they own and use it as an asset to make this world a better place to live. And they do this regardless of how much or how little they have.”
So many people pride themselves in what they own. This doesn’t bring joy or benefit to anyone. Instead, we must let go of what we have and give it to others. Time, attention, money and resources – all can benefit others in great ways.
4. Don’t Let People Own You
“It’s hard to give yourself away when someone else owns you. I wanted to be able to value people with no strings attached.”
Although we consistently benefit from others, we can’t become indebted to them. When we are “owned” by others, we don’t have the chance to give what and when we want. Instead, we must aim to be on the giving side of every relationship.
5. Define Success as Sowing, Not Reaping
“If you live life with the intention of making a difference in others’ lives, your life will be full, not empty.”
So often people sow with the expectation of quick returns and are disappointed when that is not the case. Instead, we must sow and be prepared to wait for the harvest in due time. During that time, take a step back and recognize the immense impact you have on others. That is the true reason for living.
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