“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead
I was first attracted to the cafe by their ‘In a rush breakfast’ offers, but while ordering, I then noticed their even better ‘Paying it forward’ notice along with the post-its with messages. It was inviting their customers to contribute $3.50 to their order to help the homeless.
I left there feeling full of not only yummy poached eggs but also of warm and fuzzy feelings, knowing that I’d just played a small part in something so positive and meaningful. (I also know that I’ll be going back there for the next three mornings while I’m here in Melbourne, so it’s a win-win all round from a customer perspective!)
Imagine if we all paid it forward in some small effortless way each day? Be it buying coffee for a team or division that’s doing it tough at the moment, helping someone out by sharing your expertise, praising someone for doing a great job, or starting a ‘bad habit’ charity coin jar for each time you break a good intention?
By focusing on paying it forward, it also helps you to step temporarily out of your head and gain a fresh perspective around all of the chatter, busyness and to do lists that love to hang out in there taking up all the space.
Why not think about what you can do yourself or with your team that has you starting something small that you know will create greater impact for yourselves and for others?
(I for one have made a commitment to myself to increase my Kiva loans every month, knowing that each loan creates powerful ripple effects around the globe.)