Giving When You Feel You Can’t

Years ago, I was at a low point: broke and in debt.

Four and a half years into building my business (building startups), I was out of savings and running up my credit cards. Bills piled up, and every dollar mattered. If we met for coffee, I’d pray you picked up the tab.

Yet, even then, I chose to give.

I wasn’t writing large checks. It was a $100 donation to support things I believed in. It wasn’t the amount that mattered. It was the act. Giving reminded me that the cup can always be more full, even when my circumstances told me otherwise.

Why Generosity Works

Giving is more than an act of kindness. It’s a mindset shift.

When you give, you reaffirm that you have more than you need and have enough to share. It brings a sense of abundance and gratitude, even in the face of seeming scarcity. It is powerful to transform yourself. Here are some ways giving can change you:

Cultivates a Mindset of Abundance: Giving affirms that you have enough to share, fostering confidence and openness to opportunities.

Strengthens Community and Relationships: Builds social bonds and goodwill, creating a supportive network.

Boosts Mental and Emotional Well-being: Triggers feel-good hormones, reducing stress and promoting happiness.

Inspires Gratitude: Shifts focus to what you have, fostering a positive perspective.

Aligns with Core Values: Reinforces compassion, empathy, and purpose.

Sets a Positive Example: Inspires others and demonstrates resilience.

Lessons From the Trough of Sorrow

Back in 2010, let’s just say my financial situation was bleak. I’d reached what I call the “trough of sorrow” and was in “the pit of despair.”  It’s a place where you really hit rock bottom.  But it is there that you discover what truly matters. Every entrepreneur that has been successful knows this deep, dark place. 

Even then, at that lowest of lows, it is a time to give.  I gave to organizations that aligned with my values, like the New Memphis Institute and Ballet Memphis. Those donations, though modest, helped me stay grounded in my community and keep my values front and center.

I also began giving my time. Serving on nonprofit boards allowed me to contribute in ways that went beyond money. It exposed me to new perspectives, from the arts to urban planning. I learned about ballet by serving on the board of Ballet Memphis. I’ve gained insight into civic life by helping the Downtown Memphis Commission think through policies and community development.

Each act of giving—whether money, time, or ideas—helped me feel less isolated. It reconnected me to the bigger picture and opened doors I couldn’t have predicted.

Serendipity in Generosity

When you give first, opportunities have a way of finding you.

For instance, my work with Ballet Memphis began with a chance assignment during the New Memphis leadership program. I visited their rehearsal space and met the founder. A few months later, I helped them apply for (and land) a Ford Foundation grant. Then, a few years after that, I joined the board.

Each small step of giving creates a series of connections that wouldn’t have existed otherwise. That’s the power of generosity.

A Season of Renewal

The holiday season is a time for giving, but it’s also a time to reset.

When you give, you signal to yourself and the world that you’re ready for abundance. It doesn’t have to be financial. Volunteer for a cause, lend your expertise, or simply show up for someone who needs support.

Generosity helps you connect with your community, reaffirm your values, and set the stage for the year ahead.

My Challenge to You

This season, I challenge you to give. Not because you have to, but because you can even when you think you can’t.

There’s so many opportunities to give. Write a check, no matter the size. Volunteer your time. Share your expertise. Take that first step and see where it leads.

When you give, you create abundance, not just for others, but for yourself. And you never know where that abundance might take you.

Quote I’m Pondering

Worth a Read

Adam Grant, in Give and Take, explains how good givers ultimately achieve more success—not because they expect something in return, but because their actions create long-term opportunities and trust. They understand that generosity builds connection and lays the groundwork for serendipity.

The idea of being a giver (versus a taker) in terms of both time and money is something I’ve taken to close heart in my own career and personal life. It’s how you can make organizations and relationships better. You can improve conditions for others. It’s how you can bring your communities to the next level. If you don’t want to read the full book, Adam Grant explains it best in his TED Talk on the subject:

That’s all for this week. You won’t hear from me again until 2025! I want to wish everyone Happy Holidays and Happy New Year! May this season bring you rest, gratitude, family, and, of course, giving.

To your continued growth,
Eric

P.S. I’d love to hear your story of generosity. How has giving shaped your life? Reply to this email—I’d love to read your experience.