[hnbad]

I think it's worth understanding that this "genorisity" is strategic, not universal. People don't get rich by hiring employees and paying them most of the money they bring in, or by tipping every cleaning lady or splurging on their friends, or ... .

I think the important phrase in what you said is "network". You want to be generous to those in the network and those you want to bring into it. You want to be frugal when it comes to everyone else. It's worth it to pay for a fancy business dinner with someone you think might have strategic value for you (either directly or as a gateway), not so much with your friend from highschool who's in a dead end job, has no useful qualifications and has no meaningful connections that would even hypothetically be useful.

Of cours some might say this is less generosity than sociopathy. Some might say they're right.

[Silverback_VII]

If you are generous with your friend from highschool who has a dead-end job and no useful qualifications, he may still be able to help you in one way or another. For example, he may have a very inspiring mindset and encourage you in your endeavors. He may even be more helpful than the not so generous rich guy who doesn't share anything with you or the guy who always calculates if his investments are worth it.

[matheusmoreira]

Be careful with expectations though. "If I help my friend, he'll help me in turn" is magical thinking. There is no such deal in place. Ungratefulness is very common.