My Squidoo Giant Aftermath

What does it really mean to give back?

In these hectic days after becoming a Squidoo Giant, I have realized something. I realized that I gave the same pat answer to the same question that all potential Giants are asked. What are you going to do after becoming a Giant? I’m going to give back to the community!

Great answer! But, what does that actually mean? Typically, I believe it means to make a greater footprint on the site. Maybe critique a few more lenses by new lensmasters, you know…give them a leg up. Maybe even promote the site.

Isn’t that what all good Squidizens should do?

I believe there is even greater work to be done by employing the responsibilities and weight earned while making Giant status. One of my “givebacks” comes directly from chefkeem in his SquidLog post about Seth Godin’s birthday present. I have set the royalties of this lens, The Old West In Pictures,   to 100% contribution for my chosen charity , and am going to be doing this for one of ten lenses I create in the future.

Another way to “giveback” is to take time out to acknowledge those who have supported you in the community because you have impressed them. More times than not, many of those truly enjoy your friendship with them, and you’ll find them on your fan page. That page is loaded with names that inspired you to be great. They have cheered you on. They have stiffened to help you. Acknowledge those who give their heart to you.

Creating tribute lenses is a great way to acknowledge that, but there is a way I enjoy even more; a simple “Hello! How are you? How’s the children? Get your car fixed? How was your trip to the coast? Oh, by the way….Thank you for all you’ve done. I really appreciate your kind friendship.”

How long would that feeling last for YOU,  if you received one of those notes?

I didn’t get to be Giant on my good looks. It was the better looking lensmasters, and better lensmaster in general, around me that helped me gain success.

Thanks to my friends.