When I started traveling for work, I asked the person I reported to for her best travel advice.
"Get status with your major providers. Choose one business for each category and stick with it. Being a little special in a lot of places will never replace being very special in a few."
She was right.
And you're welcome, #AA, #Marriott and #NationalCar!
I'm still grateful. I followed her words and it paid off, making my life on the road more rewarding. From life-changing trips on Points/Miles to keeping my head above water on difficult travel days.
But when it comes to making a difference directly to people's lives, I find the completely opposite theory is best.
It's not for everyone.
But I'm agile in my giving. Light on my feet and quick to see a need and address it.
Many gifts are small. But even those acts open my eyes to new organizations and people.There is so much that needs to be done.
So I sprinkle my dollars and hours around!
You'll see smiles, learn about new needs, people and organizations and most of all, yourself.
Sprinkle what you have liberally and sprinkle it often.
The ultimate status in this game is a full heart.
No fancy early boarding, no cushy seats, no suites.
Only more love.
The ultimate 'status' and rewards program.