The Message of LeadershipEsimerkki

GETTING WHAT YOU NEED

"Generosity is not giving me that which I need more than you do, but it is giving me that which you need more than I do."
-Kahlil Gibran

King Midas was the epitome of greed. You remember the story. He wished that everything he touched would turn to gold. He got his wish but eventually ruined his own happiness when he accidentally turned his daughter into a golden statue. He got what he wanted but lost what he needed.

I have always struggled with a desire to keep everything for myself. Maybe it has to do with being a spoiled first-born child. Maybe it is just a part of my selfish, sinful nature. I am blessed beyond measure to be married to one of the most giving people I have ever met. My wife, Lori, is always giving away more than I think she should. As you could imagine, this difference has caused friction in our marriage from time to time. One day I pondered my wife’s “over-exuberance” in giving, and the Lord seemed to speak directly to my heart. I was reminded that she has a special gift in an area where I am weak. Instead of squelching that gift, I should be celebrating God’s generosity toward me. He has placed her in my life to balance my shortcomings.

Maybe you need the same kind of help in your life of leadership. If you are not generous by nature, ask God to change your heart and add members to your team who are strong where you are weak. Then empower them to be generous on your behalf. Effective leaders strive to be generous with others. They understand the boomerang effect of generosity—it always comes back to you.

Essential Insight 11: Work to develop a generous heart toward others and in doing so, give to yourself.