I recently read a quote from Victor Frankl that states, “The more one forgets himself – by giving himself to a cause to serve or another person to love – the more human he is.” Samuel Johnson is quoted as saying, “[The] true measure of a person is how he treats someone who can do him no good.” Gandhi said, “Look at how he treats his servants.” These are in reference to seeking meaning through giving.
While this is more personal than business, this is evident in the business world, too. When a business person is networking, one quickly figures out if the other person is a giver or a taker. If the former, then there is a better opportunity for a continued relationship. If the latter, it will be short lived.
A good manager takes blame, yet gives the credit. A bad one “kisses up, kicks down.”
Are you a giver, or a taker?
