In one of my keynote topics, Lift as You Rise: Leading with Purpose, Generosity and Mattering, I explore the neuroscience and psychology of generosity and its link to effective leadership.
But what does it actually mean to “lift others as you rise”?
When I think about that question, I always come back to my own lived experience and the people who generously shared what they had with me – whether it was encouragement, opportunity or knowledge – helping redirect my path from homelessness to Wits University.
If I learned anything from that journey, it’s that generosity is something anyone can practise every day – whether that’s in the community or the workplace.
In that spirit, here are six small ways to lead with purpose and generosity today:
1. Introduce two people who could help each other.
Looking back, some of the biggest turning points in my life happened because someone opened a door I couldn’t open myself – or pointed me in the direction of one I didn’t know was there.
As a leader, generosity might be as simple as recommending someone for a role, introducing two people who could help each other, or inviting a junior colleague into an important meeting.
2. Acknowledge someone’s contribution – especially when they least expect it.
Giving away credit never diminishes your leadership. If anything, your reputation grows when you’re known as someone who shines the spotlight on others.
Publicly celebrate a team member, let someone present the work they’ve done, or simply say, “That was her idea.”
3. Give 15 minutes of your time to help with a CV, an interview or a difficult decision.
Sharing your time is one of the simplest ways to invest in someone else’s future.
Offer to review someone’s CV, teach a skill, or make time for a coffee with a junior colleague who’s looking for guidance.
4. Offer feedback that helps someone grow, not just feel good.
Feedback given with kindness and honesty says, “I believe in your potential.”
Instead of simply saying, “Good job,” tell someone one thing they did well and one thing that will help them become even better.
5. Tell someone, “Your contribution made a difference.”
Behavioural science tells us that feeling valued is a fundamental psychological need. Sometimes, the smallest acknowledgements have the biggest impact.
It could be as simple as saying, “I noticed what you did,” or, “Your contribution made a difference.”
6. Listen to understand before you rush to be understood.
Too often, we listen to respond rather than to understand. But generous leaders create space for others to be heard. They ask thoughtful questions, resist the urge to interrupt, and listen with genuine curiosity.
Leading with generosity isn’t necessarily about creating something from scratch. More often, it’s about spotting everyday moments where you can encourage, support or open a door for someone else.
Not every meaningful act changes the world. Sometimes it simply changes one person’s day. And sometimes, that’s enough to change the course of a life.