Leading the way is not merely to achieve and succeed, but, as Todd Adkins, the motivational speaker, said: “A big part of leadership is recognising that your fruit often grows on other people’s trees”.
The world is challenging as we navigate the time we have here and the relationships in our life.
Our life can take on a whole new meaning when we notice others and let them know they have what it takes or have something to offer; that they, too, can win in life.
People are known by their character, deeds and words. There is a profound teaching which says: “You shall know them by their fruits.”
And, it is those “fruits” we bear and willingly and purposefully share with others that will take root, grow in them and, in turn, bear fruit multiplied many times over.
The goal: to use what we know and are good at, to help others to succeed in their own life. As they win, we win and then it repeats as they help others.
Three ways that could help “let our fruit grow on others’ trees” are:
INVEST in others, starting with your own family. We don’t have any business trying to be a leader in public life or change the world when we can’t be a shining light in the world under our own roof.
Parents, devote quality time with each other and your children. Nurture and cultivate in your children good character, the quality of love and faith, a caring attitude, respect and concern for others, gratitude, kindness, patience and being careful, thrifty and honest in all their dealings.
These must go hand-in-hand with developing their intellect and talents, to achieve and succeed in their lives. Above all, parents, be good role models your children can count on, look up to and be eager to emulate;
LIFE isn’t about getting more and more of the best for ourselves. We are not here simply to acquire material possession and build success just to be more comfortable.
Life is about significance — making a difference in others’ lives. Significance comes in the relationships in all facets of life we engage in — at home, in our study and work environments, in the community, in business and in everyday interactions.
And, relationships require investment. We must actively seek and find who we can invest in around us.
True fulfilment in your lot in life, and in whatever honest task you pursue, is when you discover that your life helps find solutions to someone else’s problem.
By sharing your skills, insights, experience, counsel and support, you give someone the edge they need to succeed. Be on the lookout.
There are so many people hurting, in need, discouraged, feeling alone and even scared to ask for help because they have been denied and rejected; and,
SATISFACTION, happiness and a sense of freedom come when we live our lives helping others along the way to come out of their troubles, be rid of pride, envy and greed, uphold integrity, utilise their abilities, succeed in their honest endeavours and, in turn, for them to invest in others' lives.
In our own lives, we would recall those who guided, advised and mentored us, showed and helped us find opportunities and invested in us in various ways because they were inspired by the challenges they faced and others who invested in them.
That, in turn, should be our inspiration to invest in others.
The true fruit of our lives and the impact we have will be evident in the lives we touch.
R.D.
Petaling Jaya, Selangor