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The Secret Ingredient to Business Success: Chesed

Writer's picture: Yacov AboudiYacov Aboudi

Just getting back from the H3 summit on a high note, I want to dig deep into a thought that a friend of mine, Moshe Schaumer, shared with me. He said something that struck a chord (and I’m paraphrasing here): You can claim that your bread is great because of all your hard work. But I know the truth—your bread’s unique flavor comes from the chesed you do in your business.

I have to say, I’m not sharing this because I think I’m some kind of special holy man, anyone who knows me sees me always in pajamas making jokes and I’m definitely not trying to toot my own horn because I know that what we give is not ours but Hashem's. But Moshe’s words stayed with me, and I genuinely want to give you some insight into what he thinks makes our products special.

When COVID hit, and the world seemed like it was going to end, my wife—who is truly an Aishel Chayil—encouraged me to listen to a dream that, by the natural order of things, was crazy. In the dream, my grandfather came to me dressed in white and told me to make sure that people had what to eat. From this dream came our Pay What You Can initiative during COVID, and, with guidance from our rav, any other acts of chesed we’ve been blessed to participate in. This idea, that chesed is what gives our bread its unique flavor, has reshaped how I see success—not just in business, but in life. And the more I think about it, the more I realize that kindness isn’t just a nice-to-have in business; it’s the foundation of everything. Here’s why chesed can ensure success for your business too so here we go:


In business, we often hear about the importance of innovation, hard work, and strategy. But there’s another, less talked-about factor that can set a business apart and pave the way for lasting success: chesed.

Rooted in kindness, compassion, and generosity, chesed isn’t just a personal virtue—it’s a powerful business philosophy. Incorporating chesed into your business practices doesn’t just make you feel good; it creates tangible benefits for your company, your customers, and your community.

Here’s why chesed is the ultimate investment in long-term success:

1. Building Genuine Relationships

At its core, business is about relationships—with clients, employees, partners, and the broader community. Chesed helps foster connections that are rooted in trust and respect. When people feel valued and cared for, they’re more likely to stay loyal to your brand, recommend your services, and advocate for your success.

Example: Imagine a bakery that donates unsold bread to local yeshivot kollelim or even families. Beyond helping those in need, this act of kindness creates a ripple effect. Customers feel proud to support such a business, and the bakery becomes an integral part of the community.

When I started the program my landlord at the time thought I was crazy so I told him (he has no context for chesed) that each family has a bunch of kids and think of the wedding cakes I will get over time.

2. Creating a Positive Reputation

Kindness and generosity are contagious. A business that embodies chesed stands out in a competitive market, earning a reputation for being ethical, caring, and trustworthy. This positive image isn’t just good PR—it’s a magnet for customers, investors, and collaborators who want to associate with a business that prioritizes values over profits.

Pro Tip: Don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth. A single act of chesed—like going the extra mile to help a customer—can create lifelong advocates for your brand.

3. Inspiring a Motivated Workforce

Employees thrive in environments where kindness is part of the culture. Chesed in the workplace—whether through fair wages, flexible policies, or recognition of personal needs—leads to happier, more motivated teams. And when employees feel supported, they’re more engaged, productive, and invested in your business’s success.

Fun Fact: Studies show that businesses with high employee satisfaction consistently outperform their competitors. Kindness isn’t just good—it’s profitable.

4. Turning Challenges into Opportunities

Chesed teaches us to see challenges through the lens of compassion. Instead of viewing a dissatisfied customer or a struggling employee as a problem, a business that practices chesed sees an opportunity to help, improve, and grow. This mindset fosters resilience and adaptability, key traits for any successful enterprise.

5. Strengthening Community Bonds

A business isn’t an island—it exists within a community. By giving back and supporting others, you create a symbiotic relationship where the success of your business and the well-being of your community go hand in hand. Whether it’s sponsoring local events, mentoring young entrepreneurs, or simply offering a helping hand, acts of chesed make your business a cornerstone of the community.

Example: A clothing brand that donates unsold inventory to shelters isn’t just clearing out stock—it’s making a real difference in people’s lives while reinforcing its commitment to social responsibility.

6. Chesed as a Divine Channel for Blessing

Rabbi Nachman of Breslov taught that chesed is a divine channel through which blessings flow. By performing acts of kindness, we align ourselves with the ultimate source of compassion—God. When you emulate divine generosity, you not only bring goodness into the world but also invite blessings into your own life. Chesed elevates and purifies the giver, creating a cycle of abundance and positivity that benefits everyone it touches.

For businesses, this means that chesed isn’t just about helping others; it’s about creating a flow of goodness that returns to you, often in unexpected ways. When you give selflessly, your efforts are rewarded—not just in spiritual terms, but in the loyalty, respect, and success you build along the way.

Kindness is the Key Ingredient

Moshe’s words remind me that it’s not just flour, water, and salt that make bread special—it’s the intention and the kindness behind it. Incorporating chesed into your business isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s the best thing to do. It creates trust, fosters loyalty, and builds a legacy that goes beyond sales.

So, as you think about your business, ask yourself: What’s the chesed I can bring to the table? The answer might just transform your work—and the lives of those around you.

My takeaway use chesed it will transform your business—and your life.

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