You’ve probably heard this phrase before, related to networking, business development and sales. The theory goes that if you’re always seeking new opportunities, doors will open. It’s the old, “the harder I work, the luckier I am” routine. It’s a numbers game. Increase the input to increase the output. Regardless of how you frame it, the focus is the same: to get more. I’d like to offer another perspective.

I wholeheartedly believe in the “never eat alone” philosophy, but I see another purpose. Instead of having an agenda of getting more, I see an agenda of giving more. Instead of only having coffee with prospective customers or referral partners, how about having coffee with someone who will benefit from my knowledge or experience without any expectations on my end?

Giving away our time is really no different than giving financially. For example, the Biblical tithe calls Christians to give 10 percent of their “first fruits,” which may include our time, talent and treasure.

Giving away some of our precious time and talent for the benefit of others is truly a sacrifice. It should be done with the purest of motives—to help others without looking for a personal benefit in return. The reality is that it’s impossible to give too much. The more we give, the more we get. But we shouldn’t give for that reason.

Who do you know that would benefit from your time and talent? Why not take out a few minutes to invest in this person as an intentional selfless act? After all, it’s no fun to eat alone.

Now go forth.