Paying It Forward
When you hear the expression “pay it forward,” you might think of buying a coffee for the person behind you at Starbucks. Though this is a way to pay it forward, it can be even simpler, such as holding the door for someone or sending a friend words of encouragement (or a funny meme) on a bad day.
Consider the following questions:
- How often do you pay it forward?
- When you paid it forward in the past, what was the recipient’s reaction?
- How did you feel after?
According to psychologist, professor and author Robert Emmoms, the act of gratitude — or paying it forward — inspires kindness, connection and transformative life changes. For example, paying it forward by listening and giving positive feedback to someone not only has the potential to get them through a bad day, but also spark a connection between the two of you!
Healthy relationships are a fundamental part of a healthy lifestyle: They provide positive reinforcement, a greater sense of purpose and healthier habits and behaviors. Peers who encourage you to take care of yourself help you live longer and become the happiest person you can be.
Think about your life: where you work, who you’re friends with, where you live, what you’ve accomplished up to this point. How did you get to where you are? People paid it forward for you — someone along the way helped you get a job, meet your best friend or partner, get a house … the list goes on and on.
Be the person who helps someone get to the next point in their life. Pay it forward! In the end, you will be happier, healthier and more positive.
Take time this week to think of some easy ways you can pay it forward. Listed below are a few examples:
- Clean out your closet; donate things you don’t use
- Send someone a virtual high five or fist pound
- Write a note to a friend telling them something thoughtful
- Volunteer at a local food bank, church or school
- Write a positive review for your favorite restaurant or small business
- Participate in a clean-up day, or create your own by picking up trash around your neighborhood
- Give words of encouragement to a teammate, a friend or a family member
Most importantly, don’t expect anything in return. Instead, tell that person to pay it forward.
About the author
Ms. Alexandra Bollinger is a Health and Wellness Coach on the Slainte Fitness team at USLI. She enjoys staying active by strength training and going for daily walks and runs. Ms. Bollinger also enjoys working one-on-one with community members and customers to ensure they are on the right track to living a healthy lifestyle!