Selling Versus Giving: Both Are Fine As Long As You Know Which One You’re Doing

Know the difference between selling and giving.

If you’re selling, that means you’re expecting something in return. There’s nothing wrong with selling, but things will get ugly real fast if you’re not honest with yourself and others about what you’re doing. If you’re selling, don’t call it giving. Name your price and ask for it. Everyone wins that way. No one gets hurt.

If you’re giving, that means you’re doing it for the joy you feel from being generous. Sometimes you’ll be appreciated for your generosity. When that happens, treat it’s like icing on the cake. Sometimes, however, people won’t reciprocate. When that happens, don’t let it unnerve you. Just remind yourself of the real reason why you’re giving and enjoy the rewards inherent in being a blessing to others. If you can’t do that, then start back at one and name your price.

If you can’t give something away cheerfully and unconditionally, you’re much better off just making a deal in order to ensure your conditions of reciprocity are met upfront.

Neither selling nor giving is inherently superior to the other. Both have their time and place.

If you’re unclear about which activity you’re engaging in, however, it’s probably a bad time and place no matter what.