Reciprocity corrupts generosity

Someone told me recently that if the 1% didn’t charge for nearly everything they did, from personal branding to interviews to acts of (apparent) concern, they wouldn’t be nearly so wealthy.

That might be true.

Of course, by always assuming reciprocity, they miss out in the fun of giving generously.

Putting a price on everything might a good strategy for scaling a business, but it’s no way make a life.

You do that instead by repeatedly investing in a future worth living in.

By showing unwarranted empathy. Making a positive impact. And preserving the gratuitousness of what is free and whole-hearted gift giving.

No one should ever feel obligated to tip (or be tipped) for random acts of kindness.