Although we are often told “it is better to give than receive,” in order to live a full and balanced life it is important to be able to give and receive. Whether the exchange is of money, time, effort, ideas, love, or any other modality, flow is created by an exchange.

You can get an idea of whether you are usually in balance by asking yourself these questions:

• Do you deflect compliments or can you honestly and graciously accept?
• Do you find it hard to accept gifts? Do you get pleasure from the pleasure of others as they accept your gifts? Remember there is an important difference between receiving what is offered and taking what is not.
• Is it easy for you to ask for help or do you expect others to solve your problems for you?

The origin of the word “affluence” is a medieval French word for “flow.” You can’t fill another’s cup from an empty well – burnout is the result when you continually attempt to do this. Likewise, you cannot support causes that are important to you if your coffers are empty.

Learn to accept without feeling obligated to pay back – there is no balance sheet!

Here are some fun ways to increase the flow around you, from The Chopra Center.

• Give something to everyone you encounter – a smile, a compliment, a flower, a good thought.
• Appreciate the abundance of the universe in this very moment – the rain, the sunshine, bird song, delicious fresh produce.
• Consciously accept what you are given and give with grace.