The Power of Giving: Lessons from The Go-Giver

This morning, I find myself deeply humbled. There’s so much to be grateful for and so little to complain about in life. Recently, I’ve had the privilege of meeting and working with incredible people in my work, church, and community. Through these connections, I’ve witnessed a pure love for others that reminds me of the key principles from the book The Go-Giver.

In this powerful story, a struggling salesman learns that “true success isn’t about how much you take but how much you give.” This idea resonates deeply because, in my own life, I’ve found that when I focus on serving others, opportunities seem to multiply.

When I first moved here six years ago, I was focused on meeting as many people as possible. My goal was to build a name for myself and the credit union I worked for at the time. My sights were set on milestones: a house, a truck, nice shoes. While there’s nothing wrong with chasing goals, once I achieved them, I found myself wanting more — and working harder for things that didn’t fully satisfy me.

The Five Laws of Success

1. Value: Give More Than You Take

True value comes from how much you give to others. Recently, as I’ve returned to mortgages, this has taken on a new meaning. Value isn’t about showcasing what I can do; it’s about being present and listening. Sometimes, the greatest value you can offer is a quiet presence and a genuine smile. There’s no need to be the smartest person in the room or flaunt your knowledge. Treat people the way they want to be treated, and that’s where value begins.

2. Compensation: Impact More Lives

Your income grows in proportion to the number of lives you impact. As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I’ve seen this principle in action. Through tithing, we give 10% of our income to build God’s kingdom. We also fast and donate the cost of our missed meals to support those in need. These acts of giving don’t need to be extravagant; they just need to come from the heart. The Lord knows your efforts and blesses you abundantly in return. This is an eternal, celestial principle that continues to guide me.

3. Influence: Put Others First

In The Go-Giver, influence is about prioritizing others’ needs. In contrast, much of today’s social media “influence” revolves around selling or pushing an agenda. For years, I’ve tried to use my social media to share messages of hope and motivation. I often think about how my daughters might view my posts someday — I want them to see a life of integrity, with both highs and lows. When we put others first, we see the world differently, and our influence becomes a tool for good.

4. Authenticity: Be True to Yourself

The person in the mirror knows you best. Some days that person feels like fighting; other days, they feel like crying. And that’s okay. Don’t let shame define you. I’ve faced leaders who used shame to push their agendas, and for years, I allowed that shame to take root, fueling self-doubt and fear. But through self-reflection and professional help, I’ve learned to quiet those voices. Shame has no power over you unless you let it. Be yourself, love yourself, and the person in the mirror will reflect that love to others.

5. Receptivity: Be Open to Receiving

This is the hardest principle for me. Receiving pushes against pride and can make you feel unworthy. Over the past 18 months, my family has faced some of the most challenging financial times. In those moments, small acts of kindness — what I call “tender mercies” — made all the difference. Accepting help with gratitude has taught me that giving and receiving are two sides of the same coin. When someone gives to you, don’t question why; instead, focus on how you can pay it forward.

Final Thoughts

Writing this newsletter has reminded me of the importance of giving just a little more each day. Start small — offer a smile, hold the door for someone, or share a kind word. Giving isn’t about money; it’s about breathing life into others, giving them hope and courage to keep going.

This week, I challenge you to find ways to give a little more. Look for the blessings in the little things, and remember that small acts of kindness can create miracles.

Let’s focus on Faith, Family, Fitness, and Finances — and let’s win the morning together.

Have a great week, and thank you for being part of my journey.