10 Ideas for Paying It Forward

By |2023-11-02T08:56:09-05:00November 13th, 2017|Make Me Think Monday|0 Comments

Gratitude is contagious. We get it by practicing every day.

We can spread the cycle of generosity and kindness when we repay a good deed to others instead of the original benefactor.

If you’ve read the book Pay It Forward, or even if you haven’t, you’ll probably recognize the expression. The book’s about a young boy who did three good deeds for others in need. All he wanted in return was that the recipients pass on the good deed to three other people and keep the cycle going.

The idea spread and gained movement. Now, April 28 is recognized as international Pay It Forward Day

But, you know what, we don’t have to limit sharing good deeds (or practicing gratitude) to one day. One good deed every day might not seem like much, but if we practiced paying it forward, the difference in attitude, others, and ours could be phenomenal.

As Gandhi has said, “Be the change you want to see in the world.”

Need some ideas on how to pay it forward? Here are ten:

  • Send a greeting card to someone.
  • Visit a neighbor and ask if you can help with any chores or pick up something at the market for them.
  • Complement the store cashier.
  • Drop off books you’ve read to a shelter.
  • Pay for the person in line behind you at a fast food drive-through or express line at the grocery store or tollbooth.
  • Cook a casserole for an elderly couple or new mother.
  • If it’s raining, offer your umbrella or at least share it.
  • Pay for someone’s cup of coffee.
  • Volunteer at a school.
  • Donate a bag of pet food to a local shelter.

What would you add to the list?