The Generosity Factor: Moving from Success to Significance Through the Power of Giving

by Ken Blanchard, S. Truett Cathy

A modern day parable teaching the joy of generosity, service, and relationships. In the tradition of the best-seller The One Minute Manager, authors Ken Blanchard and fast-food entrepreneur S. Truett Cathy (Chic-Fil-A) create a parable that demonstrates the virtues of generosity. The Broker is a young man on the way up the corporate ladder who has found a niche for making money through high-tech investing. His imposing home, his chauffeur-driven limousine, his deep-sea fishing boat, and his rubbing shoulders with leading New York executives create the illusion of success, yet deep inside he is restless and feels insignificant. He reads an article about The Executive, the CEO of a very large and successful company, who claims the greatest joy in his life is his ability to give to others. This piques The Broker's curiosity. He thinks he might get a competitive edge by meeting with The Executive. The Broker is impressed by all the antique and collector automobiles in the first floor lobby of The Executive's office building. 'He must really worship cars,' he tells The Assistant. 'Not at all,' The Assistant says. 'He displays these extraordinary machines to inspire us--to remind us that each of us is unique.' The Broker's worldview continues to be shaken and turned upside down as he talks to The Executive and hears the principles that form his life. The Executive describes the plan he has developed that turns giving into a tremendous pleasure. He calls it The Generosity Factor--a way to give time, talent, treasure, and touch to those in need. The advice The Broker receives and the relationship he develops with The Executive provide a pleasant surprise and a unique twist on what it means to truly succeed--whether in business, at home, or in life.

123 pages, Spiral-bound

Published January 1, 2000

About the author

For business & leadership, see Kenneth H. Blanchard

Reviews

[Katelyn Kellow · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although this book was short, at only 124 pages, it had a great message. It really showcased how gratitude and generosity are a focal point for feeling meaning in life.

A few of my favorite quotes from the book were, “A thankful heart tends to be a generous heart” and “the only way to give is to give cheerfully, sometimes it’s more meaningful to give out of your scarcity to share those things that are in the shortest supply, no matter what your circumstances in life, there are things that you can give, everyone can have an impact.”

To me these messages were great reminders. Sometimes you need a good book to help you remember that approaching life with a grateful heart regardless of how much you have and remembering to give back can help you feel purposeful.

[Henry · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of those books that keeps you hooked because the wisdom it shares is so relatable, thoughtful, and practical. The message about generosity deeply touched me, reminding me of the spiritual purpose of life. True success is about giving and focusing on others. Everything we have—our time, talents, treasures, and ability to connect—is a gift from God. We are simply caretakers, called to use what we’ve been given to make a difference in others’ lives, which leads to the meaningful and fulfilling life we all seek.