One day a small mouse surfaced from his nest to find himself between the paws of a huge sleeping lion, which immediately awoke and seized him. The mouse pleaded with the fierce beast to be set free. The lion being very noble and wise, and in no need of such small prey, agreed to let the relieved mouse go on its way.
Some days later in the same part of the forest, a hunter caught the lion in a trap. The lion sat there trussed up in a strong net, helpless, waiting for the hunter to return. But the mouse came along next and saw the lion in need of help. He promptly set about biting and gnawing through the net, which soon began to unravel, setting the great lion free.
The moral of the story is of course that the good you do for others often comes back to help you.
English theologian John Wesley offered this advice: “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.”
If that sounds like a tall order, I challenge you to give it a try and see how your own life improves. Even if those favors are never returned.
Doing favors for people is a common theme in political and business circles. Politicians often build networks by doing favors for others. This strategy allows them to accumulate goodwill and support, which can be invaluable when they need backing for their initiatives or during elections.
The idea is that by helping others, they build a relationship that might later be useful. This is also a powerful tool in business, leveraging networks to achieve goals.
Doing favors can be strategically advantageous for several reasons:
Building a network of goodwill. This network can be invaluable in business, as it often leads to reciprocal actions that can benefit you in the future. By helping others, you establish a foundation of trust and mutual respect, which can open doors to new opportunities.
Strengthening relationships. Offering assistance or favors without expecting immediate returns can strengthen relationships. When you help someone, they are more likely to think positively of you and your business, which can lead to stronger partnerships and collaborations in the long run.
Creating leverage. In negotiations or business dealings, doing favors can give you an edge when seeking support, advice or assistance in critical situations. People are more inclined to help when they feel they are returning a favor.
Encouraging a culture of reciprocity. By fostering a culture where favors are exchanged, you encourage a collaborative and supportive environment. This can lead to increased productivity and innovation, as team members are more willing to share resources and ideas.
Ethical considerations. While there are strategic advantages, it’s essential to approach this dynamic ethically. The goal should be to build genuine relationships and offer help sincerely, rather than manipulating others for personal gain.
Actress Audrey Hepburn said, “As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands – one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.”
Mahatma Gandhi, whose life and actions were guided by a deep commitment to doing good and living ethically, had a philosophy centered around the principles of non-violence, truth and social justice. He believed in the power of individual actions to bring about significant change, and he consistently practiced what he preached.
Gandhi’s approach to life was encapsulated in his formula for achieving balance, which involved recognizing and avoiding the seven big sins of life: wealth without work, pleasure without conscience, knowledge without character, commerce without morality, science without humanity, worship without sacrifice and politics without principle. By adhering to these principles, Gandhi not only inspired millions but also led India to independence through peaceful means.
His legacy continues to influence leaders and individuals worldwide, reminding us of the profound impact that doing good can have on society.
The true measure of a person’s life is not in what they achieve for themselves, but in what they do for others.
Mackay’s Moral: In business, the favors you give often come back to you in unexpected and beneficial ways. Build a network of goodwill, and it will serve you well.
