Yesterday, I was talking about random acts of kindness and their power to make a real difference in the world. Today, I’m excited to share two incredible examples that I came across online.
The first example happened at the World Domination Summit (WDS) in Portland. Despite its name, WDS isn’t about Star Wars fans plotting world takeover; it’s a gathering of amazing people who host conferences, workshops, and talks about pursuing your passions, excelling at them, becoming a better person, and improving the world around you.
At the end of the conference, Chris Guillebeau, who organized the event, found himself with a small surplus of money. Unsure of what to do with it, he accepted a donation offer from an attendee, gathered enough funds, and ended up giving each of the 1,000 attendees $100. His only request was for attendees to think creatively about how they could use that money. Whether they chose to donate it, pay off debt, start a small business, or invest in themselves, the possibilities were endless. Many attendees began sharing their plans online, including Rami, who promised to pay Guillebeau back tenfold if his book wasn’t published by the next year. Others, inspired by Scott Harrison, the founder of Charity: Water, decided to forgo birthday gifts in favor of donating to the charity, adding the extra $100 to their contributions.
Whatever path these individuals choose, some will achieve great things, some will do good, and a few may not do much at all. But everyone left the conference with a strong sense of empowerment, knowing someone believed in their potential to create something meaningful. It’s truly inspiring.
The second initiative involves Stephanie, who decided to support a different charity or organization each day for a year by donating $10. While I’ve never been a fan of giving money directly to people on the street, I do appreciate helping out in small ways when there’s a clear need or passion. Even though $10 might seem small, it can make a big difference, like buying rice in a developing country or paying for a load of laundry for a low-income family. Stephanie’s example has inspired many others to start giving in whatever small ways they can.
The amazing thing is, doing good for others also feels incredible for yourself. Giving really is better than receiving! When you see your actions plant little seeds of positive change, you start to make the world a better place.
Some people might ask, “What if I don’t have any money?” That’s perfectly okay; you don’t need money to start doing good and giving back. You can volunteer your time at a local charity, donate blood, tutor a neighborhood kid, or simply hold the door open and give your seat to elderly people.
Step by step, you’re improving yourself, and in turn, your community is growing stronger with you.