Having ownership is a great feeling that is much commercialized today. Being able to own your own home, own your own car, own your own business and practically anything you can buy brings on this great ownership feeling that makes us excited and proud. We feel a sense of worth because of what we own that is attached to our name. What happens when we lose these things, then our sense of worth is also lost. Most of the world functions in this way and we are always in a cycle of gaining and losing self worth. How then can we overcome this cycle? Ironically, it is through Giving that we can overcome this never ending cycle. Giving does apply to donating to charities only but giving can mean giving your time, giving the gifts you have (what you are good at) and sharing it with the world.
Giving in its raw meaning:
“freely transfer the possession of (something) to (someone); hand over to.”
(Merriam-Webster Dictionary)
By the act of giving we build self worth that cannot be lost because the act of giving does not require an exchange but is done willingly. Therefore without an exchange in return, nothing can be taken away from you. Giving allows character growth that makes you see a side of yourself that never see or noticed. Everytime you give generously to someone or something, your heart becomes more compassionate and aware of those in need. It helps exercise and strengthen your heart muscle. When your heart muscle is strengthened, it is hard to give in to other people’s judgements, opinions and the materialism around you. Ultimately your self worth can not be torn down and lost when your situation changes as in the case of ownership.
Remember, that net worth does not equal self worth especially during these times when Consumerism sneaks up to us through TV Ads, emails, texts, social media platforms and even through conversations with friends, families, and co-workers. Be generous with your time, money, talent, and abilities through the “act of giving”, because it will build up your self worth.