"あげる前にもらう。"

The essence of "You give before you get" is all about the importance of generosity and investment before expecting any returns. It's like planting a seed and nurturing it before you can enjoy the fruits. This principle is simple yet profound—it means you should put in effort, kindness, or resources upfront, before expecting anything in return.

Historically, this idea has roots in many cultures and philosophies. For instance, in the business world, it's often said that a company or individual must first prove their value—whether through free trials, helpful content, or exceptional service—before they can expect loyalty, sales, or referrals. It’s about earning trust and goodwill before thinking about profits.

Think about a real-life scenario: imagine a local bakery opening up in your neighborhood. Instead of immediately trying to sell their pastries, they host a free tasting event. People from the community come, try the delicious goods, and have a great time. They appreciate the gesture and the effort the bakery has put into engaging with them. A week later, when they’re craving a sweet treat, where do you think they’re going to go? That’s right, they’ll head straight to that bakery. The bakery gave first—offering a taste of their product and building a relationship—before expecting to see any sales.

Now, how can you apply this to your life? Start with small, everyday actions. If you’re at work, offer to help a colleague with their project without expecting anything in return. Maybe you share your expertise in a particular area, or lend a hand when someone’s workload is overwhelming. Over time, these small acts of kindness and support build trust and camaraderie. Colleagues begin to see you as a reliable and generous team player, and when you need help or support, people are more likely to step up for you.

Or think about networking. Instead of approaching a potential contact with a “What can you do for me?” mindset, flip it. Consider how you can be of help to them. Maybe you have information, connections, or skills they could benefit from. Give first. Offer help, share insights, make introductions. Over time, this builds a strong network based on mutual support, rather than a transactional, one-sided relationship.

Imagine you're at a community event. There's a man named Tom who volunteers his time every weekend to coach a local kids' soccer team. He doesn’t get paid for it, and sometimes it means giving up his Saturday mornings. But Tom loves soccer, and he cares about the kids and their development. Over time, parents and children alike come to respect and admire him. When Tom's car breaks down, guess what happens? The community rallies around him, offering rides, help with repairs, and even funds to get him back on the road. Because Tom gave his time and energy selflessly, the community was eager to support him in return.

In essence, the wisdom of giving before you get is about creating a cycle of goodwill and support. It’s about investing in relationships and communities with no immediate expectation of reward. It’s about understanding that the most meaningful returns often come as a natural consequence of your generosity. So, next time you’re looking to build a connection, grow a business, or simply make a positive impact, remember: give first. The returns will come, often in ways you least expect.