Embracing the Joy of Generosity

lilyhshanks
Dec 2
3 min read

Updated: 7 days ago

During the holiday season, especially, we hear and talk a lot about giving and generosity. Shoot, Thanksgiving instructs us to give thanks!

But what do we mean and – more importantly – how do we show up in a giving or generous spirit?

What is Generosity?

While generosity is typically associated with giving, the two are not mutually exclusive. We can give without being generous, and we can be generous without needing to give beyond our capacity.

Generosity transcends simply giving by openly, wholeheartedly, and unconditionally giving. Sure, a generous person likely hopes to help the recipient(s), but the act of giving channels abundance and gratitude, without expectations and without fear that the gifts will be abused or squandered.

Generosity is giving for the joy of giving.

“Everyone can experience the joy and blessing of generosity, because everyone has something to give.” – Jan Grace

Generosity Myths

The biggest myths that hinder generosity are often one or more of the following mistaken beliefs:

You have to be wealthy to be generous.
My small gifts are insignificant.
Generosity is about giving money, not time, love, or acts of service.
If I give something away, I’ll have less.
I don’t have anything to give.
Generosity involves giving to others; generosity toward myself is selfish.

“No one has ever become poor by giving." – Anne Frank

Your Natural Generosity

Most humans have felt the uplifting, expansive feeling of generosity – as the giver or recipient. We naturally have the capacity and desire to be generous. However, whether we cultivate and practice generosity is up to us.

If you're ready to increase generosity in your life, try the exercise below.

Cultivating Generosity: A Reflection Exercise

I invite you to consider and possibly journal about the following:

Re-reading the generosity myths above, do any ring true for you? If so, recall an experience when a generosity myth hindered your natural generosity. How did it feel? (no judgement)
Consider an experience when you were generous with your time, service, money, and/or other resources. What was it like? What was given? To whom? How did it feel?
Think about a time when you benefited from another's generosity. How did it feel to receive?
Which of your past experiences with generosity felt best? What kinds of thoughts and emotions arise when you reflect on that experience?
This week, how could you inject a little more generosity into your life, whether with others or yourself?

Each of us has the natural desire and ability to practice generosity in our own way. Our "gifts" will look different: giving a loved one your undivided attention; helping a friend with a project; or volunteering your time and expertise to a nonprofit. Each delivers tremendous value! And by giving openly and freely, we feel increased love and abundance in our own lives! Talk about a win-win!

Ready to dive in? Join the HOLIDAY GIVING CHALLENGE (details below).

Seeking more clarity on busting the generosity myths or other limiting beliefs? That's what I do on my complimentary Clarity Calls! Schedule your call with me today

Join the Holiday Giving Challenge

If you haven’t signed up for my 2025 Holiday Giving Challenge, there is still time!

I intentionally designed the Giving Challenge to exclude any monetary spending. You don’t have to spend a penny to participate, complete the challenge, and potentially win!

This year’s challenge zooms in on an aspect of wellness that I’ve seen clients and others in my circle need the most right now – giving ourselves and others compassion, connection, grace, and presence.