The Power of Receiving
We’ve all heard the saying, “It’s better to give than to receive.” While giving is an incredible act of service, there’s a hidden cost to glorifying it as “better.” For many, receiving feels awkward, even shameful, because we’ve been conditioned to see it as selfish or undeserved.
But giving and receiving are two sides of the same coin. Life flows best when they exist in harmony. If you’re struggling to feel fulfilled or notice imbalance in your relationships, finances, or even your emotions, it might be time to examine your ability to receive.
Giving Without Receiving Leads to Imbalance
Many of us pour into others but resist letting others pour into us. Whether it’s deflecting compliments, refusing help, or avoiding rest, these patterns create unnecessary struggle.
Why do we do this? Often, it’s rooted in subconscious beliefs—ideas we were taught or experiences we’ve had that make receiving feel wrong. These beliefs can show up in every area of life, from relationships to finances, and they create cycles of overgiving and burnout.
Receiving is Not Selfish—It’s Essential
Think of the last time someone gave you a compliment. Did you accept it fully, or did you brush it off? If you rejected it, there’s a good chance you’re also rejecting other forms of goodness in your life.
Receiving doesn’t mean taking from others. It means allowing the natural flow of life to work through you. When you receive fully—whether it’s a gift, a kind word, or even love—you give others the joy of giving. It’s a mutual exchange that benefits both parties.
How You Show Up in One Area Reflects All Areas
Your approach to receiving in one aspect of life mirrors how you show up in others. For example:
If you can’t receive love in a relationship, you might also struggle to receive financial abundance.
If you shy away from asking for what you need, you may also hesitate to accept help or opportunities.
If you feel guilty or shameful asking for or receiving sexually but give willingly, you likely feel guilty or shameful receiving pleasure in all areas of your life.
The way you engage with giving and receiving determines the quality of your relationships, your career, and even your self-worth.
Finding Harmony Between Giving and Receiving
Life becomes more balanced and fulfilling when you allow yourself to receive as easily as you give. Here’s how to start:
Notice Your Resistance: Pay attention to how you respond to compliments, gifts, or help.
Challenge Limiting Beliefs: Reflect on the stories you’ve been told about receiving and ask if they still serve you.
Practice Receiving: Accept compliments with a simple “thank you.” Let someone help you without feeling the need to reciprocate immediately.
Embrace the Flow: Understand that giving and receiving are part of the same cycle. When you receive, you’re not taking—you’re completing the circle.
You’re Here to Receive, Too
In this season of giving, remember that you’re not just here to make others’ lives better. You’re here to allow others to pour into you as well. Balance isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential for creating a life of abundance, joy, and connection.
So, as you move through your day, give generously—and receive fully. It’s your birthright.