The expression "pay it forward" is used to describe the concept of third party beneficiary in which a creditor who offers the debtor the option of "paying" the debt forward by lending it to a third person instead of paying it back to the original creditor. Debt and payments can be monetary or by good deeds. In sociology, this concept is called "generalized reciprocity" or "generalized exchange".

How can you accomplish this? Do something for someone without telling them. Example: I sometimes leave a $5 Starbucks gift card for random coworkers or I may leave $5 at the Corner Bakery cash register for someone to find and use for their breakfast.

The spirit of giving should be an ongoing practice throughout the year... not just the holiday season.

Be sure to share your experiences here.  :-)