“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.” ~William Arthur Ward
Cultivating an attitude of gratitude isn’t just good for us. It’s life-giving for the people around us, as well. What if by expressing our gratitude to others, we could transform the places where we live and work?!?
We all have people in our lives for whom we’re grateful. Let’s put that gratitude into action – can I challenge you to make a list? Think through all those people who regularly do things for you: co-workers, friends, family members, and those who work under your leadership. Now, go back over each name and determine how you can express your appreciation for the things they do for you in a way that makes them feel noticed and valued.
Let me also encourage you to go beyond your immediate circles of influence and thank the many of other people you might overlook for the things they do to make your life better and more enjoyable, even if it’s part of their job description. Whether it’s the hostess who seats you in a restaurant, a grocery clerk who scans and bags your groceries, a stranger who holds the door as you walk in a building, or the barista who makes your grande, almond-milk, extra-hot latte! Everyone deserves to be thanked.
Here’s how:
- Give thanks more often and be specific.Say “thank you” to all those who have a positive impact on our day. For example, when your waitress remembers your favorite breakfast order say, “It always amazes me how you not only remember my name whenever I’m here, but that you also remember exactly how I like my eggs. Thank you for always making me feel so special.”
- Express gratitude to someone else’s manager.Did someone do something special for you or go above and beyond the call of duty? Tell her manager about her behavior or attitude.
- Kick off your next staff meeting with a gratitude segment. Write everyone’s name on slips of paper and put them in a bowl. Have each person draw a name and then give one reason why he or she is grateful for working with that person. It’s a terrific way to start a meeting with positive energy. This also works well for gatherings with family or friends.
- Think of special ways to show your gratitude. For example, buy flowers or do something special for your spouse that you know he or she would love. You don’t have to spend a lot of money for the thank-you to have value.
- Send a hand-written note of appreciation for extra emphasis. Most people don’t take the time to do this simple act but it can leave a lasting impression.
Whether you choose to express gratitude using one of these tips or not, it’s my hope that they’ve inspired you in some way to be more intentional when it comes to showing appreciation for the people and experiences in your life.
Gratitude is one of the greatest ways to make your world a happier place. I’m convinced that the more you practice it, the more things you’ll find to be grateful for. Pretty soon, it will be second nature – making your life healthier and impacting the world around you.
