Take a Penny, Leave a Penny

By Jesse Atwell

If everyone only takes a penny, the ‘take a penny leave a penny’ jar doesn’t work.

If everyone only gives a penny, the ‘take a penny leave a penny’ jar — ironically — becomes worthless.

And if everyone who always gives a penny, suddenly stops giving a penny, the system falls apart.

The ‘take a penny leave a penny’ jar works when some people sometimes give a penny and some people sometimes take a penny — and only a penny or two at a time, never in significantly larger denominations.

Of course, this process also unfolds in our daily lives and professional organizations.

It’s also interesting to note that the entire system becomes a moot point if nobody uses pennies.