Last Halloween, I went to a local Halloween costume shop to buy some accessories for my flapper costume – my all-time favorite, but I broke my necklace and needed a new headpiece…
When I got to the checkout, the cashier asked me if I wanted to donate money to a local children’s hospital. Of course I did! I smiled and wrote my first name and last initial on the giant star that they planned to hang up.
A child behind me saw the whole thing and said to her parents, “Hey, we need to give money too! Can we, please?”
Understand the Power of Influence
You see, I know the child asked because she saw me not only give, but she also saw that I got to write my name on a giant, purple-colored star.
Either way, had I not given, the child may not have encouraged her parents to do the same.
The takeaway? When you give, you are an example for others. You an influence their own decisions just by allowing them to observe you. They might be inspired to also make a positive impact on the world!
Be an Example to Encourage Others
I try to say yes to those types of giving situations, even if I only have a dollar or two to spare. It makes me feel good to do a small part to help others.
If everyone that day gave a dollar when they bought a Halloween costume, I know it does add up. And because I gave, so did the child!
First of all, that act showed that the child had a good heart. Second of all, it really helps make the world a better place. It is much better to lead by example than to “preach” about the merits of giving. It’s so much more powerful watching someone do it, and then also deciding to do it.
Harness the Principle of Reciprocity for Giving
You see, giving creates a cycle of reciprocity. Because I gave, the people behind me gave. I left the store, but I bet the group after that child also gave. When people see other people doing it, it creates a ripple affect. It creates a sense of reciprocity.
Not only that, but I gave money because I saw the people in front of me do it. Because of this, I vow to be a positive influence for others whenever I can!
It may seem small, but being an example can make a much bigger, positive impact than you may realize!