Giving: A Man’s Guide to Meaningful Generosity

Giving is something we all know about, but how often do we pause to truly reflect on what it means to give and why it matters? We often think about giving in terms of money or time, but there’s so much more to it. Simple acts of kindness can have a profound impact, not just on others, but on ourselves as well.

When we think about giving money, many of us imagine donating to a charity or helping others in need. But have you ever stopped to think about how much of that donation actually reaches the people who need it most? Some charities use your money to provide micro-loans that help individuals start their own businesses in third-world countries. This kind of giving has a lasting impact. What if you could be a part of something like that?

We also see the homeless on our streets. Have you ever walked past someone who is homeless and ignored them or felt uncomfortable? It's easy to feel disconnected from their struggle, but the truth is, many people who end up homeless are one missed paycheck or a bad break away from the same situation. Don’t be afraid to acknowledge them. You don’t always need to give money, but you can offer a kind word or buy them a sandwich or a hot drink. A small gesture can go a long way.

When we think about giving time, it often leads us to volunteering. Some men embrace the idea of giving their time to a cause, while others might resist, feeling like they don’t have enough time in their already packed schedules. But the truth is, even a small act of volunteering can have a huge impact—on the people you help, but also on yourself. Volunteering brings a sense of accomplishment, fosters gratitude, and helps you connect with others, building new friendships and skills along the way.

But what if you don’t have money to give or time to spare? Can you still be a giving person? Absolutely. Simple acts of kindness don’t require money or a lot of time, yet they can be just as impactful. Smiling at a stranger, holding the door for someone, or offering a word of encouragement can change someone's day and improve your own. Generosity doesn’t have to come with a price tag—it can simply be about showing kindness in small, everyday ways. Research shows that even small acts of generosity can activate the reward centre in your brain, reduce stress, and can even add years to your life.

On a deeper level, there’s something special about the ripple effect of kindness. Have you ever noticed how, when you help someone, they’re more likely to pay it forward? It’s like a chain of positivity that grows far beyond your initial act of giving. What started as a small, simple gesture can multiply into something far greater than you imagined.

However, there are a couple of pitfalls to watch out for when it comes to giving. The first is giving with the expectation of recognition. We’ve all been there: holding the door for someone, or offering a favor, only to feel frustrated when we don’t get a "thank you." The truth is, when we give, we should do it without expecting anything in return. Giving should come from a place of genuine generosity, not to seek recognition.

The second pitfall is giving because we feel obligated. There’s a difference between giving out of love and doing something because we think we have to. I’ve been guilty of this myself—offering a lift to my partner and complaining the whole way about the traffic, as though it was her fault. Reflecting on that moment made me realize that if I can’t give freely, without resentment, then it’s better not to give at all.

A phrase I’ve always remembered is: “If you can’t do something for someone with an open heart and without expecting anything in return, then don’t do it.” It’s a powerful reminder that true giving is selfless.

Giving has so many benefits—it connects us with others, helps us grow, and gives us a sense of purpose. But to make a real difference, we all need to engage in a collective giving movement. Over the next week, I encourage you to reflect on your giving: think about the impact you’ve made, and notice how small acts of kindness have enriched your own life as well as the lives of others.

Remember to give with an open heart, with no expectations attached. It might not always be easy, but the rewards are worth it. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of others—and in our own. Let's start today.

If you’re ready to embrace the power of giving and create a ripple effect of positivity in your life and the lives of those around you, Rewired for Men can help you develop a mindset of generosity and connection. Our programme empowers men to lead lives of purpose and authenticity, where acts of kindness and giving flow naturally. Start today and join a community of men who are committed to making a difference—not just in their own lives, but in the world around them. Let’s create lasting change, together.