25 Ways to Pay it Forward
“When you have more than you need, build a bigger table- not a higher fence.”
It’s that special time of the year when I start to get that nostalgic feeling. Maybe it’s all the pumpkin spice or those hopeless romantic Christmas movies on the Hallmark channel. Either way, I know that this time of year brings about a lot of feelings for people. It’s the season of giving after all! I’m pretty sure if you are reading this you have more than enough to live a comfortable and happy life. Sometimes we tend to take that simple fact for granted and although I think about it all the time, it comes across my mind even more during the holidays. With Thanksgiving coming up this week and Christmas not too far away, it’s a great time to talk about ways to pay it forward.
These are simple ways to give to others and make a difference in the world. I definitely encourage you to try something off this list within the next few weeks. I promise you’ll be glad you did!
1-Volunteer at a local soup kitchen or food bank.
2-Volunteer at a local animal shelter or rescue group.
(Check out my post on why I think everyone should volunteer!)
3-Donate toys, school supplies, or toiletries to underprivileged kids.
4-Pick up litter in your area.
5-Compliment a stranger.
6-Pay for the person behind you in the drive-thru line.
7-Leave a positive note for someone random to see.
8-Bring a meal to a homeless person.
9-Put stray shopping carts away.
10-Write a thank you note for a community worker (postal worker, garbage collector, etc.)
11-Donate blood.
12-Cook a meal for your local firefighters or law enforcement officials.
13-Bring drinks to construction, electric, etc. workers.
14-Let someone with less items get in front of you in line at the store.
15-Donate clothes to your local Goodwill.
16-Pick up something that doesn’t belong somewhere (items on the floor at the grocery store, weights at the gym, paper towels in the bathroom, etc.)
17-Hold the door open for someone.
18-Bring a meal or a sweet treat to your neighbors.
19-Bring blankets, scarves, and gloves to homeless people in the colder months. Here’s a neat article about leaving scarves tired around trees for people in need.
20-Let someone who is waiting get in front of you while driving.
21-Sponsor a cat or dog in rescue.
22- Write a letter to a soldier.
23-Send a card in the mail to someone thanking them for something you appreciate.
24-Leave a generous tip for your waiter or waitress at a restaurant.
25-Wave at a sign holder as you drive by (pizza shops, car washes, etc.).
A lot of times people think that their deeds have to be elaborate to make a difference, but seriously just doing one act of kindness can totally turn someone’s day around. Give it a try!
What are some simple ways you pay it forward? Share below!