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How Do You Contribute

June 1, 2026
 / 
Chris Berlow
 / 

How do you contribute?

A while back I was having a conversation with my son about relationships. I explained to him how I kind of view relationships like a bank account. No, it has nothing to do with money, but a lot to do with deposits and withdrawals.

I explained to him that the relationships I cherish the most are the ones where both of us continue to contribute deposits. A deposit could be simply spending time together, a good conversation, a nice text, enjoying each other’s company, an unbiased perspective, or whatever makes you feel good about the person. A withdrawal is anything that makes you feel uncomfortable, sad, frustrated, etc. Simple right?

Of course, even the best relationships are not always going to be perfect, however when the withdrawals are greater than the deposits, it may be time to question whether or not the relationship is worth having. A very powerful lesson and very difficult.

Fortunately for me, I have been blessed with wonderful people that have contributed greatly to my life, and I am forever grateful; no greater than my wife Kathy❤️ and I hope the same is for you. But if it’s not, maybe it’s time to take a hard look at your relationships bank account, and see if the other person is withdrawing more than depositing. You definitely don’t want a negative balance. (Remember, nothing to do about money)

Oh, I bet you were thinking this is only personal…not the case at all…it stands for business just the same. I personally will value a contributing business relationship over profit any day of the week. Life is too short so good business with good people to is what I believe to be one of the keys to happiness.

Happy living!


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