Why David Bolno Values Giving Back

I recently touched on how being kind to others is not just beneficial to the receiver but also to the giver too.  I wanted to expand on this a bit more and give an example of someone who has included giving back as an integral part of their business model.

It’s easy to understand how the receiver benefits from any act of kindness, whether it’s help with a task, a gift or just some good advice.  So what’s in it for the giver?

Giving can be enormously rewarding on any scale and there will be opportunities to do so close to home.  Perhaps you’re aware that a neighbour has been unwell recently.  You could drop by and ask them if they are ok and whether they need anything.  Don’t look for excuses on why not to.  They will probably be pleasantly surprised and delighted you offered. If you got a few groceries for them they are likely to be very grateful and you will feel good from receiving their gratitude.  At the same, you’ve probably just made a new friend who will be willing to return the favour sometime.

Sadly, society has become more insular and as a result acts of kindness have become rarer.  Have you noticed how people have become angrier and more confrontational?  People are increasingly fearful of others and mistrust their intentions.  We fear violence or being scammed.  If we all did our bit by giving something back to those who need it then we could help turn this tide.

Maybe you’re fortunate enough to be in a position to make big changes to people’s lives through your generosity.  One man who is and does is US businessman David Bolno.  So let’s look at why David Bolno values giving back by first looking into his background.

Bolno was raised in a strong family unit and received a good education, achieving a law degree.  He appreciates that not everyone is so lucky with their upbringing.

He went on to develop himself into a respected and sought-after entertainment business manager.  He is currently a partner and head of music at NKSFB, a talent management company that represents many well-known musicians, songwriters and producers.

Famous artists he has represented include Justin Bieber, Drake, Post Malone, Pharrell Williams and Will.i.am.  Drake publically praised Bolno in the liner notes of his 2011 Take Care album by writing thank you for “pulling my life together for me and putting me in a position where I can now begin to build my empire.”

Bolno helps his clients through mentoring, funding and education.  He realised that funding alone was not enough.  Many artists focused just on their profession and didn’t have the business skills needed to make good career decisions.  He gives his time through mentoring to guide them on the knowledge they need and funds the necessary education.

For Bolno and philanthropists like him success is measured differently and they have learned that giving back is firstly, hugely personally rewarding.  Changing other people’s lives for the better is an investment in them and also an investment in oneself.  Up-and-coming artists turn to Bolno for his support and expertise.  If they subsequently become successful then all parties benefit.

Bolno also focuses on helping the wider community.  He believes in developing strong relationships with those around him and looks for opportunities to give back and encourages others to do the same, no matter how small.

I’ve focused on a philanthropist from the entertainment world as I used to play the guitar and would have liked to have pursued it as a career.  Not coming from a musical family I didn’t have a mentor and never found one and the moment passed.  I could have been another Slash!

Nowadays, the internet provides greater opportunities to find someone to help guide you.  If you happen to be a budding entertainer and in a similar situation to the one I was once in, my advice would be to practise hard and get seen.  Find like-minded people in your local area.  Be persistent and prepared to play for nothing at local clubs and bars to build interest and a bigger audience.  You never know there may be another David Bolno watching!  Just remember to give something back if you become the latest Justin Bieber by supporting those trying to follow in your footsteps.

Ok, you may not be in a position to fund the next generation of pop stars.  My point is that showing generosity and helping others is good for your well-being as well as theirs and it doesn’t have to be a big gesture.  Whatever you can manage is good enough.

If you’re struggling with your mental health due to problems in your life you may find it easier to try and help solve someone else’s.  It’s rewarding and helps take your mind off your own issues and in the process, you may learn strategies to help resolve them too.  Just connecting with others can open up a whole range of opportunities and help to see life in a more positive light.  There are so many good things that can come from giving back and everybody benefits.