When trying to inspire others to adopt a positive mindset about becoming self-sufficient, conversations often shift toward how many times they have tried and failed. Instead of a conversation to motivate, it turns into a contest about how they have done more than I could imagine.
We all know the “recipe for success”—hard work, persistence, and focus. Social media is filled with advice from so-called experts on how to achieve personal goals. However much of this guidance is inherently self-centered, focusing on individual aspirations rather than the bigger picture which is about service to others.
The Problem with a Self-Focused Approach
When we focus solely on our own needs and ambitions, we risk becoming inwardly driven—fixated on “me and what I want.” This narrow perspective often blinds us to what truly matters: our **spirituality, family, and community.**
In my experience, true success doesn’t come from focusing on yourself but from **giving to others.** This is the lesson I aim to teach my wife and kids. Yes, like anyone, I have stories of setbacks and disappointments, but I anchor my life in principles like Proverbs 19:17: “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord.” This idea resonates with philosophies like karma or the law of attraction: **What you do for others will ultimately come back to you.**
The Principle of Giving
As Ecclesiastes 11:1 teaches: “Cast your bread upon the waters, for after many days, you will find it again.” The act of giving sets a cycle in motion—a return that doesn’t always come directly from the person or situation you helped but through unexpected avenues.
Unfortunately, we often expect immediate rewards for our efforts, which leads to frustration when we don’t see results right away. But the truth is, the impact of our actions may return to us in indirect ways. A kind deed, a helping hand, or a small act of generosity can shape our reputation positively, often preceding us in ways we can’t predict.
Helping Others Leads to Greater Purpose
Rather than focusing solely on our own goals, we should look for opportunities to help others achieve theirs—even when there’s no immediate benefit to us. Helping someone with a job application, offering guidance for further studies, or assisting with a business plan might seem small, but the impact on the other person’s life can be monumental.
This is where the concept of **“pay it forward”** comes into play. It’s not about repaying the person who helped us, but about extending that kindness to someone else in need. This ripple effect connects lives in meaningful ways, creating a cycle of support and inspiration.
In my experience, I have come to situations where things just didn't want to happen for me and my prayers seemed to go unanswered. But when I pray for someone else's situation their issues get resolved. In this, I found comfort that someone was listening, and it simply might not be my time yet.
The Emptiness of Living for Ourselves
Living solely for ourselves—or even just for our immediate family—often leads to a life that feels hollow and unfulfilling. Without a purpose bigger than ourselves, we can’t instill meaningful values in our children. This lack of purpose contributes to a generation that feels self-absorbed and unmotivated.
Helping others build their dreams gives our lives purpose and value. It fosters goodwill, builds our reputation, and inspires the next generation through our example. Humans are wired to create, serve, and add value—this is where we find our true meaning.
The Bottom Line
When we shift our focus from self-centered goals to serving others, we activate principles like karma, attract blessings, and contribute to a cycle of kindness that benefits everyone. By helping others achieve their dreams, we don’t just improve their lives—we enrich our own, finding fulfillment, purpose, and connection in the process. This is the legacy we pass on to our children: that true success lies in **lifting others.**