“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!