Adam Grant
Contrary to the belief that nice guys finish last, people who freely help others without expecting anything in return actually occupy the very top of the success ladder.
Humanity operates on three primary reciprocity styles: takers who extract value, matchers who trade favors evenly, and givers who contribute without expecting an immediate return.
While selfless givers often burn out at the bottom of the performance ladder, smart givers who align their generosity with broader goals consistently occupy the highest echelons of success.
When givers succeed, they create a positive cascade of goodwill that elevates their colleagues and prevents the envy or sabotage that typically follows a taker's victory.