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ValyrianJedi t1_j9uv54k wrote

I always have trouble figuring out how to balance this one with nepotism. I grew up with nothing and likely wouldn't be where I am if a handful of people hadn't taken me under their wings, helped me out, given me a chance etc... There has never been any way for me to repay them because they've always had more than I do and never really needed help that I could give...

Now I'm on a position where I can return the favors some, but almost exclusively by either hooking their kids up with jobs or giving them goof deals and opportunities business wise... Which means I'm either a shitty person for perpetuating the nepotism that used to drive me nuts, or I'm a shitty person for not helping the people who helped me.

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Anti-Queen_Elle t1_j9v84c3 wrote

I'd say do a little, but don't feel. overly obligated. It's about lifting people up, but there is a point where one is appropriately "lifted up", I think.

And there are plenty more that need it too, after them.

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loverink t1_j9x6rg1 wrote

The beauty of a gift is that it’s given freely, and doesn’t need to be paid back.

When you see appropriate opportunities to show your gratitude, do it! But beyond that, it’s not a debt to be paid. Pay it forward and invest in someone else the way they invested in you.

Send some folks a card or email letting them know how much they impacted you, or how you’ve modeled some of your leadership after them. There are tons of people who just want to feel appreciated, seen, and their efforts acknowledged.

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