Do the Math on Your Altruism

Sketch your connections and shared interests. Draw yourself in the center, radiating lines to family, friends, and acquaintances. Mark close kin, distant relatives, and those unrelated.

Assign a ‘shared genes’ or ‘shared goal’ value. Note who’s closest genetically (siblings, parents) or in purpose (team, project partners), and estimate how your support for each returns to you.

Review who gets your biggest efforts. Check if you’re investing most in those with the strongest ties—and strategize small shifts to increase beneficial returns to both you and your connections.