“We can have everything in life that we want if we help enough other people get what they want.” Zig Ziglar
I was recently asked to give a 2 - 3 minute talk about BNI’s core value of “Givers Gain.” In prep for the talk I remembered that Zig quote, and realized “Givers Gain” isn’t just a slogan BNI’s founder, Dr. Ivan Mosner, came up with, but like Zig’s quote, it’s part of a powerful philosophy that redefines how we all should approach business and personal relationships.
At its core, the Givers Gain mindset means prioritizing what we can give to others over what we can get. It’s about shifting from a transactional mindset to one that’s truly relationship-driven.
And when we embody this mindset, we’re not just working on our own success—we’re actively building a foundation where everyone in our sphere on influence can thrive.
It’s humbling and I’m thankful so many people in my close sphere have the Givers Gain mindset. There was a time, not too long ago, I was questioning my thinking along these lines that Zig shaped back in the late 80s and 90s.
Thankfully, I let God continue to shape me, and I leaned further into Zig and Misner’s thinking.
Consider this when we meet someone for the first or hundredth time: we have an opportunity to make a difference in their lives and businesses. Having a “How can I help you?” or
“Who can I connect you with?” “What can I do for you?” spirit of giving creates an ecosystem where trust grows, relationships deepen, and opportunities flow organically. Instead of chasing leads or sales, instead of “working the room,” instead of just gripping and grinning, instead….we don’t just engage with them at the moment, we plan to stay engaged in some form or fashion.
And, over time we’re surrounded by people who are invested in our success because we’ve shown we’re invested in theirs.
When we extend a hand, give a referral, or share a resource, it sparks a chain reaction. People remember those who have helped them, and they’re naturally inclined to return the favor when the opportunity arises. Imagine a network where everyone is committed to each other’s growth—where each of us is motivated by the success of our peers.
That’s the essence of Givers Gain, and it’s how we’re able to transform simple connections into meaningful relationships.
Givers Gain encourages us to bring generosity into all areas of our lives. It teaches us that a mindset of abundance creates possibilities. When we share our time, talents, and resources, we not only expand our own network and opportunities but also lift up our entire community. It’s about creating a legacy of giving that benefits everyone around us, including those we may never meet directly.
So, I challenge each of us today:
let’s keep finding ways to embrace Givers Gain by looking for ways to support and uplift each other.
Ask yourself, “How can I contribute? How can I connect someone to an opportunity? How can I be a resource?” Because when we do this consistently, we create an environment where everyone is encouraged to reach their full potential.
In the end, the magic of Givers Gain is that when we lift others up, we all rise together.
That’s the epitome of…
“We can have everything in life that we want if we help enough other people get what they want.”
“…give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38 ESV
To that end…
Make it a great day because it is a great day!
Danny
What a great title too! Givers Gain!
Amen!