This weekend, I kicked off 2025 with my first keynote and workshop in Atlanta—what an incredible feeling it was to get back on the road and connect with people! As I was leaving my hotel room, I reached into my bag to leave a tip for housekeeping, but all I had were $10's and $20's. I thought for a moment and then decided to leave $10 for the night.
I could almost hear my grandfather, Herbie, telling me: “Tip ‘em good. You’re never gonna miss that money, and it will make their day.” He always lived by that, and it’s advice that’s stuck with me my whole life. Herbie was known for spreading joy, especially with his collection of $2 bills—something small, yet so powerful. He’d give them out as tips, or use them to pay for things, and they always sparked a conversation. People would keep them as lucky reminders of the kindness that touched their day.

Herbie’s kindness wasn’t just about money; it was about showing up with love, empathy, and a genuine desire to make someone’s life a little bit better. And that’s the heart of giving. Whether it’s a tip to someone who’s working hard, or a small donation to a cause you care about, giving never leaves you feeling poorer—it always makes you feel richer in ways that matter. I’ve followed his lead when I donate to charities—never missing the money, but always feeling the power of that small act of kindness.
In fact, studies show, each of us will come into contact with around 80,000 people over the course of our lives. That’s 80,000 opportunities to make a positive difference. You never know when or how a small act of kindness can completely change the trajectory of someone’s day. Maybe it’s a smile to a stranger, holding the door open for someone, or offering a genuine compliment. It doesn’t have to be grand. What matters is that it’s from the heart, and it’s intentional.
This is where emotional intelligence comes in. It’s about being aware of others, reading the room, and acting with compassion. Sometimes the smallest gestures are the ones that resonate most. We all have the ability to change someone’s day with a simple, kind gesture. This is at the heart of my “Be Who You Came to Be” message. It’s about stepping into the best version of yourself and using whatever tools you have, no matter how big or small, to make a positive impact. Every act of kindness, no matter how simple, helps shape the legacy you leave behind.
So today, ask yourself: What small act of kindness can I offer someone I encounter today? How can I make their day just a little bit better?
Remember, the ripple effect of kindness is immeasurable. You won’t miss the money, and you’ll gain so much more.
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