5 Ways To Pay It Forward 💞
You shouldn’t have to wait for the season of giving, because every single day should count for that. Paying it forward is not just good for the soul, but creates a shift of goodness into the Universe. In these scary, tense, uncertain times, we need more thoughtfulness to pass around.
You don't need a $100, sometimes you don't even need a cent to pay it forward. What counts is the deed, and going out of your way to make someone else's situation easier, nicer.
PAY A COMPLIMENT
The next time someone in customer service or a grocery cashier does a good, thoughtful job, let them know. Maybe even let their supervisor know. It's as easy as sending an email with specific date, time and name of the person who assisted you and give props where appreciated. The service industry is not an easy one and as much as endured during the pandemic, we have to remember that not every customer is a pleasure to deal with. The confirmation of a job well done is a wonderful feeling. Simple and effective. (*Don't forget to be generous with your tip giving, because everyone - including your food delivery person has financial obligations. Put yourself in their shoes, it's not an easy job.)
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YOUR TREAT
Starbucks started the human kindness trend that became viral; paying for someone else's drink in advance. I love this idea, because you never know what kind of a day someone's having, or going through financially. A complimentary cup of coffee, or a bagel, muffin or even giving cash to take care of the person behind you is a cool way to make someone's day brighter. My favorite is paying for someone else's drycleaning. A random surprise, the thought of putting a smile on someone's face is enough to put warm fuzzies within you too. The next time you're at the cleaners or the supermarket, offer to pay for a person's bill. By doing so, you're going to make someone happy for no reason whatsoever. These small acts drops major goodwill back into the Universe. Goodwill is what we need so desperately right now.
MANNERS OVER EVERYTHING
This sounds like it shouldn't be paying it forward, but as we live in a tech induced life now, people forget that manners count over everything. No one watches or looks at each other anymore. Faces are down, fingers are moving devotedly to our electronic devices. If you see an elderly person crossing the street, the simplest thing you can do is offer an arm for them to hold on to or carry their bags. That goes for anyone you happen to come by who would seem to be having a difficult time. Learn and re-learn your mannerisms. Nothing on your phone will ever be as important than your actual surroundings.
David Letterman once mentioned an important piece of advice he gave to his son, if you do one thing in this life, help people.
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PASS NOTES
This one has an adventurous feel to it, because the theory is encouragement and thoughtfulness. Write a brief note or letter expressing some form of inspiration or just a motivational quote and drop it in the mailbox. Maybe your neighbor or even a random stranger, a nice card in envelope and address it "FOR YOU" and stick it on a car windshield. Imagine if you were going through some tough personal times and someone left it for you, it could be the sign you were hoping for to keep going. Good energy is contagious, so pass it on.
BRING FLOWERS
If you have a beautiful garden, share the abundance. Or buy a small bouquet and drop it off at the nearest hospital to leave at a nurse's station. Don’t forget to wear your mask (after all it’s flu season and last we heard, Covid is still out there). Take care of the caregivers.
Remember, don't expect anything in return. Paying it forward is something you do on your own time and for selfless reasons.
