If You Want to Win, Help Others Win First

Helpthemwin 0

When I was a kid, my dad taught me the most important principle of my life: “Give value: Do more than is expected.” It has been the foundation of my success.

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From day one, we encounter competition on the playground and in the classroom. Later we compete with others for educational benefits, careers and promotions. We are wired to compete, and that often leads to a mindset of trying to “one-up” others. But truly smart achievers help others win, which directly impacts the speed of results they experience.

Now that I’m aware of this idea, I teach it to others. Often when I’m making a presentation, I’ll facilitate input. If someone says something that is very valuable, I have two choices: I can gloss over it by saying something like “that’s a good idea,” and then spout my ideas, or I can have a much greater impact with my audience—and especially with that individual—if I compliment the person and encourage him or her to share more. I might say, “Wow! That’s really a great idea, Bob! Tell us more.” By doing so, I create a triple win: Bob wins (I let him shine), the other audience members win (they have received valuable input from someone other than me), and I win (I gained trust, respect and rapport by letting someone else shine).

To be the best, have the best and deliver the best results, you must be completely comfortable and confident that you will win when you help others win. If you want to see amazing results, embed this philosophy in your life and your organization.

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This article appears in the March 2016 issue of SUCCESS magazine.

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Tony Jeary is an author, executive coach and presentation strategist. Jeary has published more than three dozen books about making presentations and strategic effectiveness. He coaches the world's top executives from companies such as Wal-Mart, Ford, New York Life and Texaco.

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