Hey there, beautiful souls! Let’s talk about the delicate dance of relationships, where some folks seem to be head over heels for your hand – until it’s time to stop giving. We’ve all been there, right? Relationships are meant to be a two-way street, but sometimes it feels like you’re the only one cruising down that road. And when you are a people pleaser it’s terrible, because you will feel drained and unconciously expect the same effort in return.
Giving Without Expectations: A Personal Journey
Now, I’ve learned a thing or two on this rollercoaster of love and relationships. I’m naturally wired to be a loving person, always ready to go above and beyond for others. However, expecting the same level of energy and love in return? Well, that’s a recipe for disappointment. The truth is, nobody is expected to do anything because everyone has their own will. Everyone is free to decide who they invest their time and energy in and if that is not reciprocated it hurts!
So, here’s a nugget of wisdom I’ve handed myself: never expect to receive the exact energy you pour into others. Why? Because, my friend, not everyone operates on the same frequency. People have different priorities, minds, and personalities. Expecting everyone to treat you like their top priority is setting yourself up for disappointment. And if you have main-character syndrom, you will feel disappointed all the time! That is not how you would like to live your life. I believe everyone is yearning to live a life full of joy and fulfillment, but that requires understanding and accepting these differences in others.
Birthdays, Weddings, and Baby Showers Can Wait
In the grand scheme of life, your birthday, wedding, baby shower, housewarming or business launch can wait. As much as you’d love the world to stop and celebrate with you, remember that people have their own lives and challenges. It doesn’t mean they don’t care; it just means life is happening. Some of the people close to you may be fighting battles you know nothing about, due to the fact that they may feel uncomfortable sharing that specific issue at that moment. You may be in your high season while they may be in their low season. So, try not to be too hard on the people around you and be considerate and graceous. Otherwise you will come across as egocentric and loose valuable relationships, which would be very unfortunate.
Giving Without Strings Attached
So, here’s a golden tip I’ve tucked in my pocket: give without expecting anything in return. If you’re handing out a birthday present to a friend, don’t cling to the expectation of receiving a gift on your birthday. It’s cool if they do, but it’s equally cool if they don’t. Let go of any hard feelings, my friend, because love shouldn’t be transactional. Our heavenly Father is a perfect example of this. He gave his one and only Son, so that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16). This was a great act of love toward humanity. He knew that not everyone will catch the revelation of believing in Him, but He still gave. This selfless love teaches us that giving should come from a place of genuine care and generosity, not from an expectation of receiving something in return. Embrace this mindset, and you’ll find that your relationships will become richer and more fulfilling. Try to focus on what you can give instead of focusing on what you can get. That’s the kind of love each and everyone of us should strive for – selfless and genuine. By doing so, you will notice how much love and favour you will attract. It’s a principle.
Challenge: Be a Giver, Not a Taker
I know, sometimes it’s hard to be a giver in a world obsessed with what we can get out of a relationship, because nowadays when someone is extremely nice, we tend not to trust their motives, but let’s flip the script. Be the person with a pure motive who asks, “What can I give?” instead of “What can I get?” When you find yourself soaking in all the love and attention, don’t take it for granted. And if the tap seems to run dry from others, don’t stop loving them. Love them for who they are, not just for what they do or give you. Become that person people know they can fully rely on.
So, my lovely readers, be the change you want to see. Focus on what you can give, and watch the world bloom with the beauty of genuine love. After all, being a beacon of love is a trend worth setting. Fully embrace this mindset, and you’ll inspire those around you to do the same or do even more! In a world that often feels so cold and transactional, let your warmth and generosity light the way. Remember, the smallest acts of kindness can create (small) positive changes, making our world a better place for everyone. Cheers to love without expectations!
“love shouldn’t be transactional“ is such a WORD! had to really accept being a giver this day and age doesn’t equate to receiving. And thats perfectly fine!
It is sis, thanks for reading!
I am so proud of you, love! So elegantly written.
I am so proud of you, love! So elegantly written.