Your Next 24 Hours: One Day of Kindness Can Change Everything

by Hal Donaldson, Kirk Noonan

If asked, who among us wouldn't say we were kind people? But kindness is often manifested in feelings of pity or sympathy--especially when others are watching--rather than in deeds. And when it comes down to it, what good does mere feeling do for the world?

Your Next 24 Hours is about something much bigger--a lifestyle of kindness, without thought of reciprocation, extended toward every person in our lives, both friend and foe. Through powerful true stories of kindness lived out, this book shows readers the enormous difference they can make through small, doable acts of kindness in their families, communities, workplaces, schools, and churches. It shows how every encounter with another person is an opportunity to be kind--and a chance to change our world.

Readers of Your Next 24 Hours will find deep satisfaction and joy as they discover how they can be part of a revolution of kindness that starts with them and reaches out through every person their lives touch.

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian, Self Help, Christian Living

176 pages, Paperback

Published February 14, 2017

Reviews

[Jennifer Seidel · Rating 4 out of 5]

“One day of kindness can change everything.” That’s the premise behind Hal Donaldson’s latest book, Your Next 24 Hours. But can it really? This book brings a fascinating collection of stories as evidence of how acts of kindness impact people every day, and the ripple effect of that goes beyond today.
This book had my attention when it’s opener started with a story about Paul Walker, known for his role in the Fast and Furious series, before his expected death in 2013. I thought to myself, okay Hal, thanks for making it real, I wasn’t expecting that. From there, the author shared a series of stories that winds the reader through a pattern of growth and change and culminates with the ultimate challenge of living a life of “radical kindness.” At the conclusion of each chapter, the reader has the opportunity to grow and gain experience by taking action and following one of the suggested means of engaging in “Kind Ways.”
I found this book very timely considering today’s political climate that has so many people agitated and on guard. It’s easy to fall into the trap of complaining and ranting about what we like and don’t like, but instead this book allows the reader to see how a path of kindness can change everything. What do you have to lose? One thing is for sure, being kind will certainly have a positive impact, but it’s highly unlikely that all that ranting will do much besides raise your blood pressure!

[Hammerhead Hammerhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book after having been invited to be part of the book's "launch team", and found myself inspired by it and from the outset. Hal Donaldson, the founder of Convoy of Hope, describes having been taken in as a child by neighbors after his father was killed and his mother severely injured in an accident. Many years later, now the head of a large and highly regarded charitable organization, Donaldson still acknowledges how that selfless act changed his life forever, moving him to seek out ways to help those in need. Firmly rooted in his Christian faith, and full of stories of compassion and kindness, Donaldson's book is both easily readable and profound. Indeed it is profound in the simplicity of its message-that small acts of kindness can and do make a difference, especially when they are made part of a daily pattern and spread from person to person. Filled with short anecdotes, biblical verses, and suggestions on small acts one can do for others, this book is an excellent reminder to all of us that there is no reason to wait-that each day presents opportunities to share God's love with those around us.

[Erica Bonner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very inspiring book. I’m studying kindness in a devotion and was led to this book. So many great stories of relentless kindness and also tips on how you can be that for other people. Some of my favorite parts:
“Occasional kindness has limited power”
“Kindness and sacrifice are measured by the amount given, when the frequency of ones kindness are more revealing”
I loved that this referenced some inspiring verses of the Bible as well. How will you spend your next 24 hours?

[Stacie Sonnakolb · Rating 5 out of 5]

might be quickest read ever and most inspiring!! amazing simple concept- kindness! show kindness and start in the next 24 hours!! absolutely love this book and recommend it to everyone!

[Mary Cichantk · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book well worth owning. Teaches about loving one another. Very inspirational!

[Kella · Rating 5 out of 5]

If kindness where at the forefront of every action you took and every word you uttered, what kind of change would you bring into the world?

With this powerful idea in mind, Hal Donaldson presents kindness as a call-to-action to readers everywhere. He shows how benevolent deeds born out of the kindness of one’s heart can create a lasting impression on both the giver and receiver. In Your Next 24 Hours, Hal presents true, heartfelt, emotional stories of how kindness can and has changed a person’s life. From the smile and wave to a neighbor, to providing food, water, and clothing to people in need – every act of kindness has an impact. What kind of impact are you having on the world around you?

This encouraging read will leave you inspired and ready to take on the world with kindness!

I was graciously provided a free copy of this novel from Hal Donaldson and Baker Books in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Wesley Roth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was fortunate to be given a copy of "Your Next 24 Hours: One Day of Kindness Can Change Everything" by Convoy for Hope co-founder Hal Donaldson (and co-authored by Kirk Noonan). Being very familiar with the Convoy for Hope ministry, after volunteering for their August 20, 2011, outreach in Rapid City, SD [http://rapidcityjournal.com/news/conv...], I was excited to be given the chance to read, reflect and review "Your Next 24 Hours". Their outreach to our community helped 5,300+ people in the Black Hills Area, and likewise, I feel this book can be a catalyst for a more kind, more friendly and more generous America.

Throughout the book, I found myself highlighting key passages, which made me reflect and consider how I can be more kind and friendly to my fellow neighbors, friends, family and even complete strangers. I appreciated the statements and thoughts by Donaldson like:

* "Fulfillment doesn't come from exceeding others; it comes from elevating others." -- So true!

* "Think of your heart as a bank vault that's packed with the currency of love and kindness. When that currency is hoarded--it is wasted. But when it is invested in the lives of others it pays great dividends. With each disbursement, you give others strength, hope, and value."

* "Sometimes you have to follow your heart and err on the side of 'impulsive generosity.' Live by the adage, 'Seldom resist the impulse to do something kind'". -- What if we as Americans committed to doing this? Being "impulsively generous"!? Would be revolutionary.

* "If you don't show kindness to someone, it's possible NO ONE WILL. (emphasis mine). --an incredible thought to take captive and remember and always act upon. Could be the key passage of the book for me. Think about that. There are probably people who are seriously struggling through many storms and difficulties and dispair and God may have you come accross them to be kind, offer encouragement or just be friendly for moments in time. What will you do??

* "Once-friendly conversations have become partisan confrontations. It's likely that teh divisive tone will persist unless citizens like you take the steps to restore a sense of respect, cooperation, and decency to the corrosive world of politics." -- as someone who has worked in the political world for 11+ years, this is very true today. Think about this.

And one last excerpt:

* "When you choose to persevere in kindness, you unleash an unstoppable force for good. Occasional kindness has limited power. But relentless kindness has the power to restore, inspire, rescue and unite. 'Don't ever get tired of doing the right thing.' (2 Thess. 3:13)". -- Key wisdom to remember.

There are many more passages that I highlighted that I will continue to act upon and reflect on moving forward. This book is backed with scripture and contains many examples of those that have been kind or did good towards another person or persons. The chapters are short, but provide the reader with key stories and examples at the end of each chapter how you and I can be more kind.

This would be a wonderful book to read for anyone young or old. It would also be a good book for a youth group or small group to read and discuss and then ACT and work towards being more kind, caring, loving and generous with everything we have been blessed with by God.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lately I’ve felt that the world really needs more kindness and the quote “be the change you want to see” came to mind when I would think this. So when the opportunity to read this book came along, I really wanted to read it.

This book is filled with stories of ordinary people as well as celebrities who chose kindness in big and small ways. It also has ideas for how you, the reader can perform acts of kindness in day to day life.

I found this book very inspiring and uplifting. It was a nice reminder that there is still good in this world and encouraged me to look for opportunities to give and serve each day.

It was enjoyable to read and very fast paced for a non-fiction book. I highly recommend this to all people who want to see more kindness in the world.

My Rating: 5 stars

I received this book from Baker Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review.

[victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was very inspiring with all the stories of unsung heroes, as well as celebrities like Kate Winslet, Adam Levine and Jake Gyllenhaal etc. and this book also had a stories with full of life principles from people who learned to love their neighbor as themselves was very inspire you to awaken each day more determined than ever to be force for good. The authors have impacted millions around the world through the generosity and incredible work of Convoy pf Hope in depth share the story of their pain, struggles and success to make a different wherever you live or at work with Your Next 24 Hours will not be the same anymore.
I highly recommend to everyone must read this book.
" I received this book free from Baker Books through the Baker Book Bloggers program in exchange for this review "

[Joan Arning · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Through your kindness, you can change your home, workplace, school, and community.” This book gives practical advice on how to change your world through kindness! Reading this book and practicing at least one of the suggestions may change your life! “People deserve love and respect regardless of where they come from, how they look, or what they need.” Each chapter ends with five suggestions of ways to show kindness. I highly recommend Your Next 24 Hours to everyone. We can all benefit by being kinder. I received a preview copy of Your Next 24 Hours from Baker Books. This is my honest opinion.

[Tony Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book shows you the secrets to a more rewarding life. When a person chooses to live a life of kindness, they start a chain reaction of kindness that can change the way people treat one another. This book gives you the insight on how simple it is for a person to make the choice to perform acts of kindness. A must read for everyone and then teach your child well. #yournext24

[Ty Habegger · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book teaches you the little things you can do each day that can help to brighten the lives of others, and ultimately change the world. This book is hard to put down, and is filled with countless stories of acts of kindness and humility from celebrities, business leaders, pastors, and the average joe. You will not regret reading this book.

[Angie Fehl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hal Donaldson, with the help of Kirk Noonan, put together this inspiring little bit of nonfiction to get readers thinking about how they can make their little corners of the world just a little bit better. Pretty apt timing on this book's release, I must say!

Hal Donaldson is the co-founder and president of Convoy of Hope, a non-profit organization which strives to provide services to those in need around the world, whether that be through nutritional programs in school, shelter & job training for abused mothers looking to start over, or even disaster relief services. Your Next 24 Hours pools together what Donaldson has learned not only from his work with Convoy of Hope, but also his own life experiences from having survived a childhood in a painfully broken home, the relationship between his parents irrevocably shattered.

This book starts with a foreword from Candace Payne, aka "Chewbacca Mom" of Youtube fame, who recently got signed to a multi-book deal herself through Zondervan Publishing. I noticed the outside of the book also features some interesting choices for promotional blurbs, one being from Anne Beiler, founder of Auntie Anne's Pretzels and another from Curt and Nancy Richardson, inventors of Otterbox tech protective cases. The one blurb I really loved though was from San Francisco 49ers tight end Vance McDonald:


"It's easy to love the lovable, to be kind to the kind, and reciprocate to those who have first done something nice for us. Ours is a world built around the bold and the beautiful, the pretty and the eloquent. But what about those who are seemingly unlovable, shy, unnoticed, less fortunate? Such people are all around us, and we often take them for granted. But just as Jesus modeled, perhaps we could lift up their spirits if -- through kindness -- we simply noticed them. Your Next 24 Hours encourages us to do just that!"


Once you get into the meat of this book, you'll see that each chapter starts with an inspirational quote from a celebrity name you know. Just to name a few: Princess Diana, Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, Oprah Winfrey, Mother Teresa, Marilyn Monroe, Matthew McConaughey, Audrey Hepburn, Walt Disney, Nelson Mandela, Denzel Washington, Magic Johnson, Ellen DeGeneres, Natalie Portman, and Jane Goodall. Many more are included. Also referenced are inspirational stories of generosity involving celebrities such as Paul Walker, Kate Winslet, Adam Levine, Jake Gyllenhal, Zendaya, and Amy Adams. Each chapter ends with a "Kind Ways" list, suggestions for little ways you can incorporate good deeds into your daily life, either through acts that benefit others or steps you can take to improve your own mental / physical wellness.

In among all these celebrity anecdotes (as well as his own) and tips to motivate the reader to action, Donaldson also offers up some solid lines to ponder on. Just a few of the little life truths he wants you to remember:

>> "Fulfillment doesn't come from exceeding others, but elevating them."
>> "No home is perfect; every family faces its share of ups and downs. But a home founded on love and kindness can weather any storm. When crises arise, you can stand with confidence and say, 'We are family, and no matter what, we're going to make it through these challenges together.'"
>> "Listening is kindness. It tells people you cherish their words and value their opinions. It says, 'You matter.' Kindness means seeing the unseen, hearing the unheard, and touching the unloved. Relentless kindness is contagious."
>> "Listening also means hearing what people are not saying. Some are wounded, alone and afraid. Their jobs may be tenuous and their family fractured, and you'd never know it. They suffer in silence because they really don't know whom they can trust. It will take someone like you, who hears what's not being said, to reach out to them and offer encouragement."
>> Also, "Forgiveness is kindness."
>> "Don't try to settle disputes through emails or texts. Meet face-to-face whenever possible. Don't allow a friendship or business relationship to suffer because you didn't take the extra step of connecting in person. Whether you're negotiating a cease-fire in your family or circle of friends -- or mending fences in a business relationship -- your acts of kindness are never wasted. With a little good fortune and a dose of understanding, your adversary could one day become your most-trusted ally."
>> Donaldson also gets into the science behind kindness: Acts of kindness increase levels of oxytocin in the brain, which decreases depression and strengthens the immune system. Your body gets a natural high from the oxytocin boost, so your brain continues to encourage you to look for more opportunities to do good. Win-Win: your health improves while you do your part to improve the lives of others! Added bonus: surveys say happy people, on average, live about 35% longer.
>> Donaldson reminds readers of a few of the hard truths behind acts of kindness as well: sometimes those acts mean something of a sacrifice on your part. The key thing to remember is that your sacrifice demonstrates that you are aspiring to live a life that rises above solely benefiting yourself. Your sacrifice benefits others in need, and that's no small thing! That being said, he also stresses the importance of knowing how far to go with generosity / charity. Sometimes an impulsive act is good, other times it pays to do your research... sad truth is there ARE some sketchy people and companies out there who will take advantage of your kind heart if you're not careful. Donaldson gives you some tips on how to go about being simultaneously smart and sweet at heart.

Once you're inspired to carry out these small acts of kindness on your little patch of Planet Earth, Donaldson then explains how your little acts positively will positively affect the world on a global scale. Along with this, he also stresses the importance of being kind to the planet itself, being environmentally conscious, and ways you can go about doing that if you are unsure of where to start. Though this entire book is under 200 pages, there is a bounty of inspiration and information to be harvested from its pages! If you find yourself discontent with the state of the world right now and want to make a change but don't know where to start or if you are skeptical about how much difference little ol' you could make in the grand scheme of things, I urge you to try this book out and see for yourself that every little act helps! If you are on Twitter, Hal Donaldson encourages you to share your stories of progress with him (@ConvoyOfHope) under the hashtag #YourNext24

FTC Disclaimer: Baker Books kindly provided me with a complimentary copy of this book & requested that I check it out and share my thoughts. The opinions above are entirely my own.

[Kent · Rating 3 out of 5]

In 22 brief inspirational chapters, Donaldson encourages the reader to help others. Five specific ideas on how to show kindness conclude each chapter (x 22 = 110), and real life illustrations of everyday kindness are liberally peppered throughout the book. Some examples are incredible, like:

Each evening New York’s Jorge Munoz wheels his pickup to one of Queens’ grittier corners. There, dozens of day laborers, homeless, and hungry men step from the shadows and gather around Jorge’s tailgate, where he serves home-cooked meals, coffee, hot chocolate, and healthy doses of encouragement. What the recipients don’t know is that Jorge is not a rich man. Nor is he self-employed. He’s a full-time school bus driver who relies on his family’s limited resources to deliver one hundred fifty meals nightly, 365 days a year. The family buys the food in bulk and stores it in their tiny dining room. Each day, before heading to work, Jorge awakens early to prepare the meals. “It’s a beautiful thing,” he said, “to hand someone a meal who hasn’t eaten all day and that person looks at you and says, ‘Thanks so much—God bless you!’” (33-34)

Too daunting to consider? Donaldson encourages you to do what you can:

You may be taking inventory of your own assets and telling yourself, I have so little to give and it’s not even worth the effort. But your generosity and means—no matter how meager—could be the starting point of someone else’s miracle. When you and others share what you have, many receive what they don’t have. Your resourcefulness is a valuable resource! Look outside the box. Be creative. Assess what you really have and find a way to use it for good. If all you possess are two hands, collect trash along the way. If all you own is a smile, use it to befriend someone who is lonely. If all you have is an umbrella, share it with someone who’s quivering in the rain. If all you have is a kind word, encourage those who think the world is against them. To the lonely, rain-soaked, and downtrodden, your resourcefulness is their miracle. (34-35)

[Mary Lou · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Pay it forward” is the basis behind Hal Donaldson’s new book Your Next 24 Hours. On August 25, 1969 his parent’s car was hit by a drunk driver. His dad was dead and his mother was struggling for her life. “While mom recovered from fractures and internal injuries, we [he and his three siblings] lived with the Davises and their children in a single-wide trailer. There weren’t enough beds to fit 10 people, so we took turns sleeping on the floor. The Davises sacrificed their privacy and drained their savings account so four children could have a place to live” (Your Next 24 Hours by Hal Donaldson, Baker Books, 2016, p. 14). The Davis’s lifestyle of sacrificial kindness became the model for Hal’s own life and the basis for his book. His premise is simple: If you choose acts of kindness, in 24 hours you can change the world, person by person. He includes stories of many people’s acts of kindness—some people who are well-known in the public arena, and other people who were just doing the right thing. At the end of each chapter is a section he calls “Kind Ways” with five practical suggestions of how to show kindness in the particular area he is describing. This is a practical, very helpful book. Five stars.
Mary Lou Codman-Wilson, Ph.D. 3/2/2017

[Kathleen Garber · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author of this book Hal Donaldson is the president of Convoy of Hope, a faith-based humanitarian organization. The book is all about how just one act of kindness or one day of kindness can make a real change.

The book tells a story in each chapter of someone who did something amazing. They didn’t do it for attention but it caught the attention of those standing nearby anyways who reported it. Some are stories of celebrities and some are not. All the stories are beautiful. Each chapter also starts with a quote by a celebrity and can I just say, they are GREAT quotes. I’ve never seen so many GOOD quotes in one book. At the end of each chapter are some suggestions for ways you can show kindness in a similar way.
Is This Book For Me?

If you have been feeling like there are no good people in the world – read this book.

If you have been wanting to do something to make a difference but aren’t sure what – read this book.

If you want to show your children that kindness is important – read this book.

If you don’t think you can help others because of your living situation – read this book.
Final Thoughts

Your Next 24 Hours was a good read and it made me happy. I think the book should be required reading in college.

[Mh Weyler · Rating 3 out of 5]

I can’t remember where I first heard about this book and almost didn’t finish it. This very short book starts off with secular speak and the prevalent party line about kindness so it surprised me when the author interspersed scripture to support his arguments. True, all kindness ultimately is just a reflection of Christs kindness to us. There is a lot of discussion of feel- good stories of people who practice kindness in all the worldly ways— pay it forward etc, but there is a bit more meat behind it because of the scripture references. I really appreciated his quirky yet visual reminder that we as parents are the primary actors at home in a reality tv show about life. The mood for the show is set by us.

[Jenn Bradshaw · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kindness is King, and the world could be an entirely different place if all of us made the choice to pay homage.

Through dozens of real-life examples, both famous and mundane, Hal Donaldson and co-author Kirk Noonan illustrate more than 20 ways and reasons to make kindness, not only a random act but a purposeful habit.

My teenager recently asked me, "Why are people so unkind?"

The answer to changing that is in this slender volume, as kindness is contagious.

If you'd like to reach out to others but aren't sure where to start, I recommend letting this little book be your launch pad. Spend 24 hours in selfless kindness using the ideas in this book, and watch the ripples spread.

[Mark Curcio · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of my former students quoted this book in her graduation speech as valedictorian, so I went on Amazon as soon as she concluded and ordered it. I won’t lie - I was expecting a “always be kind blah blah” type of narrative, but it honestly was more than that. This book makes you reflect on your own life and question whether or not YOU are as kind as you think you are. I’m not saying that I’m going to turn around and be Mr. Rogers, but one of the main themes of the book is that kindness is contagious. That is something I believe our entire country needs to adopt and maybe we would be better off.

[Jill Hood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic compilation of reminders, short stories, glimpses into different people's decision to show kindness... from an unknown do-gooder who pays it forward in the drive through to the mega movie star who purchased a diamond ring for a couple he didn't even know, these inspiring recollections will make you more aware of what you can do every day. Practical tips and suggestions at the end of every chapter gives positive peer pressure to join in the kindness movement! It all starts with me. And you! Read and be inspired, be challenged, be moved toward compassion.

[Mike He · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Your Next 24 Hours: One Day of Kindness Can Change Everything" is worth reading and re-reading. The authors tell us that true happiness and fulfillment of life come not from how much you take, but from how much you give. There is also an old Chinese saying to the effect that "Never fail to do anything kind which you deem as petty; never dare to do anything evil which you consider as trivial." Not only is the book inspirational and motivational, but also it serves as a guideline for a truly meaningful and rewarding life.

[Debby · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful book! I love the focus on kindness and showing love to one another - even strangers - with the same care that you would a family member. This is how I've always seen or thought agape love works. The author includes practical ways to put kindness to work in your life every day to create a habit or lifestyle of kindness. I would recommend the book to anyone and everyone. Let's create a culture of kindness and change our world to one where we can all appreciate one another and show that appreciation.

Thank you, Hal Donaldson!!

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was very interesting and I enjoyed seeing how small things can make big changes. It really gives you something to think about when you are hoping to make an impact for change.

I received a free digital copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review. This opinion is entirely my own.

[Ashley · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read this to my 6th grade students. It's okay - some good reminders of how to be kind and examples of ways to follow through with the message. However, I often felt bored - the book is very redundant (24 chapters of the same message), but some stories were good at bringing an emotional pull to help motivate action.

[Darren Clarisse · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just ok. It is a collection of good deeds of different people. Some inspires me.. Some I dont relate to much since the setting is in US, and encouragement to help others is in the setting of US. But OK to read a chapter a day to get a chomp of good deed that would inspire you throughout the day. Not something binge-able.

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an inspiring and compelling book. We need kindness to spread like a wildfire! We never know how a kind gesture can be life changing for someone else! Thanks Hal Donaldson and Kirk Noonan for reminding us to love our neighbors, ALL of them!

[Erica Miske · Rating 5 out of 5]

With social media and tv constantly pointing out how awful the world is, this book offers hope and encouragement by showing all that good is happening and practical ways you can help make the world a better place.

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Important reminders and nice suggestions about incorporating kindness and other positive actions into daily life. I used it as a type of a devotional as I read a chapter a day. There are a lot of quotes, some Biblical. It was a gift to me, and I may also pass one or two along as gifts.

[Becky H. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book about how being kind can change the way you live. Good to at least skim though and read the highlights and tips. Has several tips on things to try.

#50/50BookQuest categories=Nonfiction book, recommended by a friend, and number in the title.

[Josh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick and accessible, with illustrations drawn from celebrities and pop culture, this book takes a look at how small and simple changes to thoughts and actions can lead to greater positive impacts wherever we have influence. It's broadly applicable and offers a worthwhile perspective.