Thank you: Arguably the two most powerful words in our vocabulary. The challenge to myself: extend a formal thank you
via handwritten note to at least two people a week for a good
turn they’ve done for me or others. Challenge begins today and runs through 2016.
It’s easy enough to say thank you – via text, email, snail mail, phone, in person – at any point in our day. When I worked in the nonprofit arena, I conveyed my thanks every day in a variety of ways for the many generous acts done on behalf of my nonprofits by volunteers and donors. Since those days (which ended five-plus years ago), however, I’ve been a bit remiss in extending thanks for the many good deeds that have benefited me.
A quick on-line search for the definition of thank you includes the following:
a polite expression of one’s gratitude
a polite expression used when acknowledging a gift, service, or compliment, or accepting or refusing an offer.
When used in it’s [sic] true form (not merely out of obligation) it is an expression of respect and appreciation to another soul (and simultaneously to all beings) for the unconditional kindness that has been bestowed upon you
Exclamation used to express appreciation to some for offering or giving you something, for helping you, or for asking how you are feeling
For me, thank you and gratitude are inextricably linked together. I owe a debt of gratitude for many and find that expressing gratitude via thanks provides a variety of benefits for me:
Serves as a reminder of the good deeds done on my behalf- Acts as a natural mood enhancer
- Spurs me on to do a good deed on someone else’s behalf
- Forces me to slow down and appreciate the moment
- Boosts productivity in all areas of my life
- Underscores how a seemingly small act can have ripple effects
- Reminds me that there is a lot of good happening in the world
Join me in your own way in adopting an attitude of gratitude and thanking those near and far who lend a hand to your success.
