Pay It Forward Day

On the 28th April 2016 the UK is officially celebrating Pay it Forward Day when people will be invited to join a worldwide movement in performing random acts of kindness to 3 or more people and asking those people to do the same. Last year, people in 75 countries took part in Pay it Forward Day and this year, we are hoping to inspire over 10 million acts of kindness.

 The idea comes from the novel, and subsequent film, Pay it Forward which tells the story of a young boy who does 3 good deeds for others in need. All the child asks in return is that they pass on the good deed to three other people and keep the cycle going.

 Prince William & Kate Middleton made the decision to 'Pay it Forward' as instead of receiving gifts, they asked people to consider making a donation to a charitable fund (helping 26 charities) instead.

 Anyone can participate in Pay it Forward Day - all you need to do is do something for someone else without expecting anything in return. Buy someone a coffee, pay for someone's parking - and ask them to do the same to 3 more people.

 After all, as Mother Teresa said:
"If you can't feed a hundred people, then just feed one."

 Here are a few ideas of what you could do:

• Can for kindness - you can collect cans of non perishable foods and give to refuge or other organization who would benefit
• Book Giving - Collect books and distribute to needy groups
• Charity Day - Sausage sizzle, selling chocolates etc. to raise money for a local charity in need
• Buying the train or bus ticket for the person behind you
• Donating some of your professional services to someone in need on the day, for example - free hour consultation
• Buy a stranger a cup of coffee
• On a rainy day, buy a few umbrella's and give them to those who don't have one and are getting wet.
• Visit your local church or community group and ask if there is any family that might need your help

 
Even the kids can join in by:

• help carry the shopping
• help wash and clean the car
• tidy up the toys
• tidy up your room
• water the garden
• read to a young sibling
• setting the table
• thanking someone
• ringing a sick friend or sending a card
• walk the dog, feed the cat, talk to the bird, clean the fish tank
  
  

The possibilities are endless. Who will you make smile today?

 More details at www.payitforwardday.co.uk

 Chris Green is a motivational coach. His next course: Confident Public Speaking is on 11th May.