So often, when asked to join a membership association, people will ask, "What's in it for me?"
They wonder:
- Will it advance my career?
- Will it make my workload any easier?
- Will it give me more time to be with my family or friends?
- Will it help me make more friends?
- Will it give me influence?
- Will it help me make more money?
The questions continue, both verbal and nonverbal, while someone weighs the value of giving their time to a particular group as the membership recruiter struggles to point out how wonderful it is to associate with a group of like-minded individuals for yes, all of the above will happen if you allow it to happen. Yet despite all the fine attributes of joining, the decision often defaults to no.
How sad it is that in a world where individual advancement is valued so highly, the concept of return on investment is missed by so many. When you invest your time by giving of yourself in service to others, you are rewarded with a positive understanding of self-worth. It makes you feel good about being you.
Flora Edwards said, "In helping others, we shall help ourselves, for whatever good we give out completes the circle and comes back to us."
Kindness begets kindness. Be kind and join an Optimist Club today and share your kindness through service.
Click here to find an Optimist Club near you or contact me and I'll help you organize a new Optimist Club in your community.
