Have you ever been a dollar short at the cash register and a stranger in line helped you out? Got lost and someone gave you directions? If so, you know how grateful these random acts of kindness make you feel—and you’ve likely wanted to pass that feeling on.
If you’re looking for ways to pay it forward with acts of kindness at times that aren’t random, here are five ways to pay it forward at any time.
1. Donate blood
Someone in America needs blood every two seconds. Donating blood is a safe and fast process that can save a life. Check out the Red Cross website to find a blood drive near you.
2. Give credit where credit is due
People can be quick to give negative feedback, but the opposite response doesn’t typically occur after good service. Going out of your way to give praise doesn’t cost you anything and can help elevate a person’s career or business tremendously. All you need to do is ask to speak to a manager or leave some kudos on a review site.
3. Donate things you don’t need
With spring upon us, there’s no better time to round up the things in your house that you don’t need and donate them to charity. Canned foods, clothing and books not only make great contributions; donating also keeps them from ending up in a landfill. Use an online service to find a worthy cause near you.
4. Tip based on service, not cost
The service industry is largely dependent on tips for living wages, but tipping etiquette typically calls for an industry-wide tip percentage without taking value into account. Don’t neglect a server who does the same amount of work at a less expensive business.
5. Send money to someone overseas
Do you know someone serving in the military overseas? Studying abroad? A small bit of money can go a long way for a young person living or traveling far from home. Many people are too reserved to ask, but would be very grateful to receive some financial support. This thoughtful gesture can be extended to more than 200 countries and territories worldwide through our online money transfer service.
