Motivation for Good Deeds All Around
“Seeing—or even just reading about—others’ courage, compassion, or generosity can not only make us better people, but increase the likelihood we’ll do good works of our own,” suggests Jonathan Haidt, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology at the University of Virginia. Yes, I’ve seen and experienced the phenomena: doing good works is contagious. Leadership is contagious as well.
Reading about and recognizing the men and women selected for this year’s 40 Leaders Under Forty is one example of leadership encouraging more leadership. Just listening to the biographies of the now 360 leader alumni encourages others to become more involved in the community. The number of nominations grow each year; there seems to be little “brain drain” in central Illinois.
I frequently watch The History Channel, enjoy Biography, and like to read biographical books. They motivate and inspire, encourage reflection and introspection, and often help with my own problem solving. Perhaps that’s why I so enjoy the interviews featured in InterBusiness Issues, The Peoria Woman, and Arts Alive! Every one has a story—and all readers can learn from the experiences shared by the interviewees. As this issue marks the 13th anniversary of The Peoria Woman, more than 500 local women have been profiled. And our list continues to grow.
When I read about another’s courage, I question myself. What would I have done on September 11? If a bomb, fire, or airplane were to crash into my office building, what kind of leadership would I demonstrate? Tears of admiration fill my eyes when I read about any brave rescuer—from the seven-year-old who walked almost a mile to find help after his family was hurt in a car accident, to a woman bravely fighting the effects of chemotherapy.
Reading about another’s compassion also encourages introspection. I’m continually amazed at Jane Gray, owner of Miss Goody Two Shoes, who has developed a passion for the children of Haiti. When asked what she can do—as she’s not medically trained—her response is, “Anything they need me to do.” When not spending her time and resources to help other volunteers and medical staff on their journeys to Haiti, she organizes fundraisers, some as simple as accepting donations of an old pair of shoes at her store to receive a discount on a new pair.
Generosity: Why do we list names of philanthropists in program books, have buildings named after someone, and use names for solicitations, broadcasting that the entire board has contributed? In the hopes of encouraging others to give—to be associated with a group. Some prefer to donate money anonymously, and so there are many quiet heroes who give of their time by reading to a child or an elderly person, babysitting, stuffing envelopes, etc. The gift received is the satisfaction of being needed and filling a need. No gift of time or money given from the heart is too small.
Yes, doing good works is contagious, just as bad habits lead to more destructive behaviors. As 2003 approaches, we want to continually seek out those who make a difference, and be quick to thank them. We’ll continue to give recognition to area women for contributions to the community, business achievement, and charitable activities, and facilitate communication and networking among women and women’s organizations. By our example, we’re helping future generations see that the virtues of leadership and community service lead to fulfilling, satisfying lives. TPW
Reading about and recognizing the men and women selected for this year’s 40 Leaders Under Forty is one example of leadership encouraging more leadership. Just listening to the biographies of the now 360 leader alumni encourages others to become more involved in the community. The number of nominations grow each year; there seems to be little “brain drain” in central Illinois.
I frequently watch The History Channel, enjoy Biography, and like to read biographical books. They motivate and inspire, encourage reflection and introspection, and often help with my own problem solving. Perhaps that’s why I so enjoy the interviews featured in InterBusiness Issues, The Peoria Woman, and Arts Alive! Every one has a story—and all readers can learn from the experiences shared by the interviewees. As this issue marks the 13th anniversary of The Peoria Woman, more than 500 local women have been profiled. And our list continues to grow.
When I read about another’s courage, I question myself. What would I have done on September 11? If a bomb, fire, or airplane were to crash into my office building, what kind of leadership would I demonstrate? Tears of admiration fill my eyes when I read about any brave rescuer—from the seven-year-old who walked almost a mile to find help after his family was hurt in a car accident, to a woman bravely fighting the effects of chemotherapy.
Reading about another’s compassion also encourages introspection. I’m continually amazed at Jane Gray, owner of Miss Goody Two Shoes, who has developed a passion for the children of Haiti. When asked what she can do—as she’s not medically trained—her response is, “Anything they need me to do.” When not spending her time and resources to help other volunteers and medical staff on their journeys to Haiti, she organizes fundraisers, some as simple as accepting donations of an old pair of shoes at her store to receive a discount on a new pair.
Generosity: Why do we list names of philanthropists in program books, have buildings named after someone, and use names for solicitations, broadcasting that the entire board has contributed? In the hopes of encouraging others to give—to be associated with a group. Some prefer to donate money anonymously, and so there are many quiet heroes who give of their time by reading to a child or an elderly person, babysitting, stuffing envelopes, etc. The gift received is the satisfaction of being needed and filling a need. No gift of time or money given from the heart is too small.
Yes, doing good works is contagious, just as bad habits lead to more destructive behaviors. As 2003 approaches, we want to continually seek out those who make a difference, and be quick to thank them. We’ll continue to give recognition to area women for contributions to the community, business achievement, and charitable activities, and facilitate communication and networking among women and women’s organizations. By our example, we’re helping future generations see that the virtues of leadership and community service lead to fulfilling, satisfying lives. TPW