Alot of the emails I get are from people all over the world asking me if they can start their own Free Hugs Campaign in their cities and towns. They're always so polite, mentioning how the place they live in could do with some cheering up, but always asking for permission.
You've never needed my permission! The words are yours, the hugs are yours, all you need is the encouragement and believe me, the smiles you'll receive are well worth it.
In fact, you have my best wishes and sincerest hopes that you have a great time out there too. Bonus!
The other part of the email usually asks, how do I start my own Free Hugs Campaign?
So here's a quick list of things you might want to know, before getting out there and hugging somebody.
Make a Free Hugs sign or a Free Hugs T-shirt.
Anything that says "Free Hugs" boldly enough so that people can see it. You need to advertise what you've got on offer!
Find a Location
Find a busy public place that has a lot of pedestrian traffic, the busier the better. Be mindful, shopping malls, amusement parks, nursing homes, they're all private property, call them in advance to find out if they're ok with you being there.
Choose a Time and Date
Arrange a time and date when you think your location is busiest to go out there and hug some people. Take some friends, take some photos. If you don't take any friends, you'll make some new ones! If you don't take any photos, believe me, you'll be in more than enough of them by the end of the day!
Now, there are a couple of other small details to be mindful of, when offering Free Hugs to people.
Be passive, not aggressive, you aren't selling on commission! Stand around, smile, wave and talk to curious bystanders but don't be confronting. People are already intimidated enough by your big smile and your Free Hugs sign, they won't be able to handle you running up to them and forcing a hug on them.
WEAR DEODERANT! I can't stress this one enough. By the end of your Free Hugs day, you're going to smell like the collective armpit of your city, don't start the day out that way. The greatest compliment you'll get all day from people is "Gee, you smell nice."
Wear comfortable clothing. You really have to make sure you're comfortable if you're going to be standing around all day. In summer, wear a t-shirt… trust me, unless of course you want to be covered in other people's sweat.
Smile at everyone! They may just smile back. Then, double back for a quick hug. Even if they don't, they won't soon forget your smile.
When hugging someone, be mindful of their physical condition. Don't pick up a frail granny and twirl her around like you would your partner. Unless they run and leap into your arms, a nice old fashioned hug is just fine!
When the person you are hugging stops hugging you, let go. If they're patting you on the back, let go faster. See how it feels. Go with the flow.
You may never know why someone needs a Free Hug, but at some point, everyone will want one.
Some people don't want a hug, though they'll settle for a handshake. Some people may just want someone to talk to you for a moment. Others may just wonder how crazy you are and if you're with a church group, a university study or a TV program. Everyone, no matter how stern or sinister they look is going to be curious.
Check out the forums at www.freehugscampaign.org there might just be someone in your area who'd love to join you.
The most important thing to remember is to have fun. I'm sure you will!
Have a great time out there and be sure to send me a message, let me know how you went! I'd love to hear your stories, to hear how your city responded.
We can't change the world, but together we can make a difference, one hug and one smile at a time.
Hugs, Juan.
www.freehugscampaign.org