Adding value through acts of service

Gary Chapman, in his book "The Five Love Languages," points out that Acts of Service is one way some people express love and receive love. The other love languages are: physical touch, words of affirmation, quality time and receiving gifts. 

My primary love language is Acts of service. Having grown up as the youngest of five kids and having to be the "gopher, or go-fer" for the others, as well as for my dad when he was building homes, came naturally to me as I didn't acquire any other skill specifically related to the construction trade. 

"Hey Gil," they'd say, "go fer drinks and snacks for the crew..." Often, I would go get what they wanted but always had plenty for myself as well.  What's the olld proverb, "don't muzzle the ox that's treading out the corn."

Growing up without a great income source or monetary allowance forced me to do things for others to gain acceptance and feel good about helping others.

I lived in an area of town where all the other neighbors were old and their kids had long moved out.

They needed basic chores done around their house and would offer me the opportunity when I was able to do so.

Taking the initative to do things proved invaluable later on when acts of service involved learning and teaching CPR and first aid for the Red Cross and using it as a volunteer at road races and riding ambulances.

Acts of service adds value to people when they see you help them promote their vision and goals.

Voluntarily promoting a good service, good product and/or good experience to others helps to grow businesses and promote good will. 

As we know in life, when we do good for others "we help other people get what they want" without looking for them to repay, we receive good in return in ways that help us get "everything in life that we want."