Today I’m going to focus on why David Bolno and other business managers focus on giving back using philanthropic principles. But firstly let’s start with a bit of context and background:
When I was growing up I was generally encouraged to play it safe with my studies and ended up doing a business diploma course after leaving school. Although the diploma was handy to have I wish I’d also chased a dream. I enjoyed sports and was ok but not exceptional at any. Perhaps I should have pursued my love of music or tried to become some other form of entertainer. The chances are it would have come to nothing but it would have been fun trying.
My advice to anyone in the same position I was in is to go for it! If you have a particular talent such as an entertainer try to spend as much time as possible developing your craft and gaining as much exposure as you can. Start by looking in your own area for like-minded people or clubs you can join to assist you on your journey. For instance, if you want to be an actor, find out if there are any amateur dramatic societies nearby. If you’re currently studying at university it’s likely they will have a club for budding actors.
Approach local venues and offer your services for free. Just performing a 10-minute slot could make a big impression on your audience and word of mouth could soon lead to paid gigs. Bars and clubs are always on the lookout for talented singers, musicians, comedians, magicians etc.
While I say ‘go for it’ try and have a backup plan. Start by seeing it as a hobby or side hustle and not as your main job. Don’t expect to get rich quickly or at all. The cold hard truth is that most entertainers don’t earn a living from their passion. So it’s a good idea to combine it with studying for a degree or having a regular job to help you earn a reliable wage, to begin with.
Hopefully, you will be one of the lucky ones that through your talent and endeavour become successful. If you do, try and remember the hard times and what would make it easier for others trying to follow in your shoes. Try and give something back with your time and money. You could mentor those in your area of expertise or help finance others in a different field. Perhaps you could make a short video course, podcast or ebook about your journey with useful tips to get ahead and avoid some of the pitfalls, then make it available for free online. You will get a lot of satisfaction through these processes and you may find that it opens new doors for yourself.
One man who is well-known for adopting this approach is David Bolno.
David Bolno is a business manager who has worked with leading entertainers such as Justin Bieber, Drake, Post Malone, Pharrell Williams and Will.i.am.
Drake wrote in the liner notes on his 2011 Take Care album thanking David for “pulling my life together for me and putting me in a position where I can now begin to build my empire.”
Bolno is an expert in structuring businesses and financial planning for corporations as well as individual artists. He embraces the principles applied by like-minded philanthropists by providing finance, resources and expertise to charitable causes to make a positive impact in society.
Bolno is somebody who cares and is a big believer in developing strong relationships starting with his own family and then into the wider community. He encourages not only other philanthropists but also those on modest incomes to do what they can to help society as a whole. Not just in terms of finance and resources but by giving a bit of their time whether that means helping at a homeless hostel or just regularly checking if a nearby elderly resident is well and needs anything.
‘Giving back’ has many benefits not just to those who receive help but also to the people who provide it. Giving to others and witnessing their reaction and the subsequent benefit to their lives is hugely rewarding, this can cause a ripple effect throughout society by encouraging others to do what they can. The satisfaction of giving on any level is good for your sense of purpose and well-being. If you are kind to others, others will be more likely to be kind to you. The culture of giving can grow for the benefit of everyone.
On a business level, your generosity could provide new business opportunities for yourself. Other businesses are likely to be more inclined to want to work with someone who has a reputation for ‘giving back’. Therefore, it’s a win-win all round.
So good luck with chasing your dream and if you’re successful think of those who could do with a helping hand on their journey. You’ll be glad you did!