Extra Mile Day on November 1 allows us to appreciate the positive impact that we leave on our communities, organizations, and families when we choose to “go the extra mile”. The observance is aimed at celebrating people who go the distance — and then some — all around the world. Extra Mile Day inspires us to be better versions of ourselves; doing the bare minimum has gone out of style, exceeding expectations is the new standard.
History of Extra Mile Day
The earliest use of the phrase “go the extra mile” was in the 1900s. The phrase is believed to be a reference to a line from the Bible. Jesus, while giving the Sermon on the Mount, said: “Whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.”
In 2011, the Extra Mile America foundation, in conjunction with mayors from 228 United States cities, declared November 1 Extra Mile Day. In 2014, the number of celebrating cities in the United States rose to 527. The dedication of celebrating individuals and organizations towards the Extra Mile initiative each year is quite overwhelming.
The celebration was designated as a way to appreciate our ability to positively impact the world around us. Created by Shawn Anderson in 2009, Extra Mile America empowers individuals and organizations to go the extra mile and be the change they want to see in the world.
With Extra Mile Day, the founders aimed to inspire action and a positive outlook towards life. The observance is meant to motivate people to focus on living a fulfilling life free of limits. The day sheds light on what we can achieve if we harness our potential.
Extra Mile America hopes this celebration can challenge people from all around the world to embrace their roles as agents of change. This change starts from small actions; it could be staying a little late at work to iron out those fine details ahead of schedule. For others, it’s reaching out to customers to make them feel appreciated, or getting your spouse flowers — even when it’s not their birthday.
Extra Mile Day timeline
The phrase “go the extra mile” is coined from a line in the Bible.
Shawn Anderson establishes the Extra Mile America foundation.
Extra Mile America declares Extra Mile Day on November 1.
On November 1, over 527 cities in the U.S. celebrate Extra Mile Day.
Extra Mile Day FAQs
How can you go the extra mile at work?
Always be on the lookout for extra ways to contribute. This can be by taking on additional tasks or looking for out-of-the-box approaches for improving efficiency and productivity. Take an interest in your colleagues, help someone out, or volunteer for that job no one wants.
Why should you thank people for doing more?
Showing appreciation to people who put in a little more effort is crucial to getting them to repeat it. It shows them that their effort wasn’t a waste and encourages them to do even more.
Why should you do more for clients?
If you run a business, going the extra mile helps you form meaningful relationships with your clients. Demonstrating that you’re ready to jump hurdles for them is most likely to guarantee repeat business.
Extra Mile Day Activities
Go the extra mile in your career
We all have career goals and new heights we hope to achieve in our jobs. Use this observance as the fuel you need to do more towards reaching those goals. Create a workable plan and dedicate time to seeing it through.
Go the extra mile in your relationships
This holiday is a great opportunity for you to spice up your relationship. Whether it’s a spouse, friend, sibling, or parent, do something special for your loved ones today.
Volunteer or make a donation
Volunteering is among the best ways to leave a positive impact on the world around you. Why not make the world a better place by contributing your time or money to those in need.
5 Work Facts That Will Blow Your Mind
Focused minds
People who avoid office politics are more efficient and successful than those who do not.
Steep margins
Over 40% of international workers are not earning enough to scale the poverty line.
A brave new world
The coming of the Industrial Revolution made year-round labor possible; work was no longer dependent on natural lighting or the season.
Burning the oil
On average, people spend over 90,000 hours working during their lifetime.
Going the distance
The average wheeled office chair will travel over eight miles each year.
Why We Love Extra Mile Day
It is rewarding
Few things are as satisfying as exceeding expectations. The feel-good feeling that comes with going the extra mile is almost addictive.
It helps you grow
Going the extra mile helps you grow in both your work and personal life. You become a better version of yourself when you take responsibility for your actions.
It is a source of inspiration
People around you are sure to follow suit once they see the positive impact of your actions and attitude. You become an important figure after whom they can model their lives.
Extra Mile Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | November 1 | Saturday |
| 2026 | November 1 | Sunday |
| 2027 | November 1 | Monday |
| 2028 | November 1 | Wednesday |
| 2029 | November 1 | Thursday |
