"如果你想要拿，你必须先给，这是智慧的开始。"

The essence of the quote is that in order to receive something valuable—be it knowledge, respect, or even material rewards—you first have to offer something yourself. Giving is the foundation of building intelligence, wisdom, and successful relationships. Think of it as planting seeds before you expect a harvest.

Historically, this idea has been around for ages. It’s deeply rooted in various cultural and philosophical teachings. For instance, ancient Chinese philosophy, as reflected in the works of Confucius and Laozi, often emphasized reciprocity and the idea that true wisdom comes from serving others before seeking benefits for oneself. It’s about the balance of give-and-take in human interactions.

Let’s dive into a real-life example. Consider a mentor-mentee relationship. A young professional joins a company and is eager to climb the corporate ladder. Instead of immediately seeking promotions and recognition, they first offer to help their colleagues and superiors. They volunteer for challenging projects, assist their peers with their tasks, and share their insights generously. Over time, this act of giving doesn't go unnoticed. The colleagues appreciate the help, and the superiors see the dedication. Eventually, when it's time for promotions, the young professional stands out—not just for their work but for their ability to uplift the entire team. Their initial act of giving laid the foundation for receiving respect, opportunities, and career growth.

How can you apply this wisdom in your life? Start small. Next time you want something—a favor, advice, or even just someone's attention—think first about what you can offer them. Maybe you have knowledge they need, or perhaps you can lend a helping hand with a task they're struggling with. The idea is to create value for others before expecting value in return. It’s not about manipulation but about building genuine, reciprocal relationships.

Imagine you’re in a neighborhood where everyone looks out for one another. There’s Sarah, who always bakes cookies for new neighbors. Because she’s given her time and effort, people naturally want to reciprocate. When she needs help moving furniture, the whole street shows up. It’s a cycle of giving and receiving that fosters a strong, supportive community. Now, picture if no one ever made the first move to give. It’d be a lot less friendly, right? That’s the power of taking the first step to give.

In a more personal scenario, think about friendships. If you’re always the one calling, checking in, and making plans, you might wonder why you’re doing all the work. But in strong friendships, there’s a balance. One day, you might be the one needing a shoulder to cry on or a laugh to cheer you up. Those friends you’ve supported are more likely to be there for you because of the investment you’ve made in the relationship. It’s all about the give-and-take.

So next time you’re in a position where you want to take, pause and consider what you can give first. It’s a simple yet profound approach that can transform your interactions and build a foundation of true intelligence and wisdom.

Think of it as sowing seeds. The more you give, the richer your harvest will be. And, ultimately, the intelligence gained from this practice isn’t just about smart decisions—it’s about creating a life filled with meaningful connections and mutual respect.