Do you remember back in the early days of the internet where various ?Electronic Bulletin Boards? required you to upload so many files in proportion to the number of downloads you grabbed? File contributions were not only necessary, but were required. In fact, if you didn't adhere to this policy, you may have been barred from downloading altogether. Everyone was so excited about connecting with other computers and these early Bulletin Boards with their 300 and 1200 baud modems, a far cry from today's technology just 15-20 years later.

Unlike these Bulletin Boards, our society seems to foster an attitude of taking rather than giving. Most people are looking out for what will give them the most immediate gratification and reward, and aren't generally interested in the welfare of others. Instead of the give and take philosophy of the early internet days, it's more of a take-take-take mentality today. A ?what's in it for me? attitude dominates.

Giving is much more than simply a biblical concept. There is a feeling of great satisfaction and fulfillment earned each and every time we do something for or financially contribute to someone else or a cause greater than ourselves. There is no escaping the fact that we are designed that way. Such action is virtually guaranteed for our betterment. Giving, when done in the right spirit, is actually an investment in ourselves, in our future, that will cause us to reap far more than that which we sow. It represents a promise from almighty God Himself.. It doesn't get any bigger than that!

Not only is there the promise of a greater reward for our generosity, but there is the priceless reward of utter satisfaction, joy and fulfillment that fills our heart as a result of giving. Doing a good deed for someone else, especially when done in anonymity, where there is no opportunity for material reward, will make you feel good about yourself and your place in the world. This intangible reward is far greater than any fleeting monetary payment. This mindset of joyful giving is essential for our success.

What does success mean to you? Is it the end result or goal that you aspire to attain? Is success a new address in a better part of town, membership in an elite club or surpassing the Jones'? Is success tangible or intangible? Is your previous definition of success enough or does it leave you wanting more? Whatever success means to you, it is probably much more about the journey than any particular achievement. Try adding giving to you success formula. You'll be astonished where it will take you.

Knowing exactly what it is that you want is critical. Having a detailed plan for its achievement is absolutely necessary. Taking consistent and persistent action, while constantly monitoring your progress and altering your strategy accordingly, will surely help you in your journey. Giving, while often not grabbing the spotlight, will definitely contribute to the satisfaction that you seek and make a difference in the life of someone else. Giving is a strong component of success. You will surely get back more than you ever gave away.