When I initially wrote the title to this article, I replaced "Wealthy" with "Successful." In my opinion, I don't believe wealth determines success since there are so many variables which determine success.
In my study of some of the wealthiest people alive in 2015, I discovered a common trait. Now, to forewarn you, this is probably the opposite of what you believe would be the common trait. In fact, if we were to all practice this trait more consistently, myself included, I believe we would see a tremendous change in our society.
Before I dive in, let's consider some options. Many would say the common trait of the wealthy would be a hard work ethic, maybe even excellent social or business skills, some may even have advanced educational degrees.
While all of these are certainly characteristics of wealthy people, I am referring to a different trait: generosity.
You see, generosity is often the opposite of what is expected from people in our modern society. Generosity, however, plays a much broader role in the development of wealth. It plays a key role in every aspect of business, relationships, and social networking. It goes beyond just "money" and spans a plethora of topics and areas of our lives.
Generosity often creates a confused look on the face of a recipient. It is the cure for greed, the antidote for ungratefulness, discontentment, and many other negative traits we often possess.
The act of generosity is, within itself, null and void if the motives behind the act are misaligned. Isn't it funny how human behavior is selfish, naturally? Even as children we are naturally selfish. To find a truly generous person, well, that is rare, and it is my goal to be one.
What I have discovered is no scientific breakthrough. It is no deep, psychological secret hiding from humanity. Generosity benefits us in many ways. So, you say you cannot pay off your neighbors mortgage, which would be awesome. So what? Pay for the strangers meal at the drive-thru or when you are seated at a restaurant. Pay for someone else's gasoline. Be generous with encouragement, it doesn't cost a thing.
Our society has been overwhelmed with negativity lately. It's all a matter of perspective, I suppose.
We can change everything with our behavior if we are generous. We can completely change someone else's world, even if it is temporarily. Sure, there will be people who will try to take advantage of your generosity. But, they will always exist, and who knows, maybe your actions will have a positive affect on their lives.
One of my personal goals is to create enough revenue to I pay off my mortgage and give my house away. It has always been a secret goal of mine. You can read more about this on my website.
How can you be generous today? Maybe it doesn't involve money, maybe it is just being generous with your encouraging words. At the present, my words are my currency, the way I can be most generous. Encourage someone on their journey today, you never know what they are dealing with.
Photo: Pixabay/geralt