Generosity is a great way to make an impact and stand out. And while sharing money or material things is one way, you can also be generous with your time, effort, energy, patience, focus, etc.
What would it take to lead your teacher to conclude that the class is better with you in it?
What if you wrote down everything you learned as the club treasurer, lighting tech, or basketball team manager and shared it with the student who will take your place next year?
How could you make the next meeting you attend a better use of time for everyone else in the room?
What gesture might show your friends that they mean as much to you as you do to them?
How could you show your boss that every shift at your part-time job is better for the customers, the employees, and the business when you’re there?
How could you show your parents and siblings just how much they mean to you?
You don’t need perfect grades or high test scores to be generous. You don’t need a leadership position or another platform. You don’t need to be invited, appointed, or selected. You don’t need a unique opportunity or scenario. You just have to decide that it’s worth it, not because it will help you gain a competitive advantage, but because it makes you an even better human being.
Look at where you are and what you’re doing today. Then offer a little generosity to the people who might benefit. You’ll probably get back more than you give, especially if you do it expecting nothing in return.