Common', you have 15 minutes... so give back already!
Years back I thought I didn't have 15 minutes, but it turns out that no matter how busy I think I am, I have many. I dedicate 15 minutes per day for 4 to 5 days a week. Each time I either perform a task or define one. That's it. Interestingly, it helps you build momentum and find larger chunks of time for longer tasks.
Some tasks I've performed over the year include:
- Call local politician
- Set up PO Box for a non-profit
- Update website
- Donate on DonorsChoose
- Search for giving opportunities
- Write email to non-profit board
- Help non-profit fill out necessary forms
- Identify Grants
- Email to donors
- Email friend for help
- Blog post
- Define agenda for meeting
- Call friend to ask for help
- Call volunteers
- Review documentation
- Brainstorm ideas
- Share an idea
- Online Research
- Makes lists of stuff that needs to be done
- and much more
So find something to give to, pick a day or two, and let the 15 minutes pile up to something really good.
What Next? I try to think of ways to keep up the habit. I have a little idea...
Sometimes I've found myself with 15 minutes and no clear thing to do and hence this little idea. Basically, I want to try sharing 15 minute "giving" tasks. I'll share new tasks, and take tasks defined by others in an effort to keep up momentum. I would love to somehow make this fun too. I'm thinking very simple task management plus
foursquare. Anyone know of something like this? Let me know.
About Picture... That's a photo of my son, Lucas, on Christmas day. Both he and my daughter are sweet and generous people. They inspire and expect me to do good.
More On Giving
9 Ways to do Good with $25 or 5 minutes on Mashable
Katherine Fulton on the future of philanthropy
