People always think it’s a great, big deed that’s needed to make a difference; only huge events can act as a catalyst. It’s so often that we overlook the small deeds, and they are the ones that can have the most significant impact on our everyday lives.
On 28 April the world will celebrate Pay it Forward Day. This is a day where you do a kind deed for a stranger without expecting anything in return other than them doing something kind for another person; this kindness must then be passed on indefinitely. However, we ask, why limit kindness to one day? Why not do a kind deed every day, several times a day or every chance you get? Soon the ripple effects of your small deeds will have a momentous influence on the world. We say start today to spread kindness throughout the world.
So, what can you do to pay it forward?
1. Donate
When you spring clean (this can happen any time of the year) your home, be sure to put a box aside for clothes, appliances, books and anything you no longer need so you can donate them later. Have a look at this list to find a charity shop near you. You can also choose a charity or people in need and give them your bsmart cash back when it pays out.
2. Visit
Go to a nursing home and spend time with someone who doesn’t get any visitors. If you are an animal person, spend time at an animal shelter and help the staff, best yet, take cookies to thank them for their hard work.
3. Help your neighbour
Are your neighbours working in the yard, moving, carrying heavy bags, washing the car, etc.? Help them out. Not only is it good to get to know the people living around you, but you’ll also be spreading goodwill. Do you have a busy neighbour whose dogs are always barking? Offer to take the dogs for a walk.
4. Lend a hand
Don’t let location stand in your way, help someone in the mall when they’re balancing shopping and paying a parking ticket. Or if someone you know has kids, offer them a night off and babysit.
5. Pay a compliment
As a rule, give at least three compliments a day, even if you tell the petrol attendant he’s got a great smile. You never know the impact you can have on another person’s mood. Besides, when you see their joyous smiles, you won’t be able to suppress your own happiness.
6. Pay for someone
When you’re doing your grocery shopping, pay for the person behind you in the queue. If you swipe your bsmart card at any of our retailers, you’ll grow your cash back. You can also pay for the car behind you in the drive-through or buy a stranger a hot chocolate on a rainy day. How about giving the car guard or homeless person a meal? If you need more ideas on how to pay it forward, watch this incredible video created by Krizovatka that demonstrates the spirit of kindness and consideration perfectly. It shows that no act is too small. There are so many unexpected things you can do for others; you just have to pay attention to the world around you. Because there is such a need for kindness in the world today, we challenge you to pay it forward and change the world for the better.
Disclaimer: bsmart does not provide financial advice. The above article is for information purposes only to share current economic and financial topics and trends. Please consult a suitable and qualified financial services provider if you require financial advice.