“Never fail to appreciate someone who cares for you. Just
because they are always in your life to help you in some way, never fail
to give thanks or recognition. To value someone or take something too lightly
is a risk no one should take.” – Brigitte Nicole
Something as small as an act of gratitude is a gesture that we should keep in our lives. More often than not, we yearn to be valued, appreciated and noticed. Though we eventually get the attention we sought for, we overlook the small things and forget to show our appreciation to the people who has provided help along the way. Whether it’s your family, friends, teachers, colleagues or employer, here are 10 ways to express gratitude for the tiniest gesture they have offered. In the meantime, don’t forget to thank yourself too!
1. Sparing Time
No matter how busy a person is, if the other party matters, time is definitely not a barrier. Invite them out for a meal or engage them with something they’re interested in, for instance, visiting a museum, talking a stroll in the park or perhaps even watching a movie. There is no need for an on-going conversation as long as both of you are comfortable. Let them know that they matter to you.
During silences, you may also take the opportunity to
share some specific events that they’ve helped you with and how it has made a
difference in your life. Avoid making them feel like they’ve been asked out to
keep you company. Instead, make them feel that you’re willing to take time out
to create more beautiful memories together.
2. Giving Compliments
We all love to hear compliments. Express your appreciation by letting them in on some qualities or talents of theirs that you genuinely admire. Make them feel better about themselves and ease their self-doubts.
Praising not only improves on the relationships you’ve established, but you
also get to make them feel happier. Furthermore, even you too, will feel
happier when you truly feel that the person deserves the compliments
3. Offering Your Full Attention
“I’m always here for you if you need a listening ear.” Indeed, we do often say this to reassure people that we are there but are we really offering them our ears? Expressing gratitude requires both actions and attitudes.
Instead of playing with your gadgets while they are talking, devote
your attention to them and respond aptly when responses are needed. Make
your presence known and ensure that their issues have been heard. Don’t just be
empty shells.
4. Using Hands And Words
Sometimes it’s not easy to muster enough courage to show your appreciation upfront. There is a way to go around this and you don’t have to be physically there to convey your appreciation– writing a heartfelt card. Note that when writing card, clearly state the purpose of writing this card and question your sincerity. Words play a crucial role in getting our emotions across.
Therefore, keep your thoughts in check and choose the words that come
from your heart and point out which specific event you’re showing gratitude
for. A simple thank you note will suffice too if you’re unsure how to fill out
a card.
5. Lending A Hand
A helping hand can light a person’s day. It doesn’t have to be something huge where you have to go out of your way to do it. A simple gesture like cleaning after the meal, washing the dishes after a visit at your friend’s place or helping out with household chores at home can make a huge difference in their day.
If possible, offer to lighten your co-worker’s
workload in some ways if you have the capability to do so (but not at the
expense of yours).It’s all down to you showing initiative and people will
appreciate your kind intentions as well.
6. Buying A Gift
It would be nice to receive a gift once in a while. Familiarize yourself with their interests and purchase something that suits their liking. It does not have to be costly.
Something as simple as buying a
Starbucks voucher can lift their spirits if they’re coffee lovers. Perhaps a
scented candle or a manicure for ladies, cookies, mug, box of tea, journal,
books or a hand- are neutral options you can consider. You may also consider
hand-knitting a scarf during winter too.
7. Surprising Them
An element of surprise is bound to warm their hearts. Wake up an hour earlier to prepare a meal for your family so they can have a longer rest.
Pack lunches for your siblings. Bake cookies or make sandwiches for your
co-workers. Cook your friend their favorite meal. If cooking is a task for you,
a post-it note with a smiley face and a thank you can work wonders too. (You
may want to place some chocolates on it to prevent the note from slipping off)
For those who are away from home, a postcard or a snail mail works just as
well.
8. Calling Or Texting
Technology connects people easily these days with just a single click. If it’s inconvenient for you to do meet ups, a simple call works too. Give them a call and hold a conversation if possible. It does not necessarily have to be a long talk. Letting them know that they’re in your thoughts is all that is needed. Likewise, a short and simple text such as “How was your day? I hope you’re doing fine!” is just as good.
There is no need for a special
occasion or a specific reason to make a call or send a text. Sometimes, the
slightest gesture of concern is enough to change a person’s mood.
9. Making Their Importance Known
This is going to be short and sweet and serve as a reminder.
Do consider the similarities between the abovementioned 8 points and you will
be able to notice how easy it is to remind them that they matter to you.
While you’re occupied with the people around you that you owe thanks too, never forget to thank one more person, and that is YOURSELF. People can help you along the way but ultimately, it is you who takes control of your life.
10. Thanking Yourself
Do something rewarding for you, such as going for a massage
or a vacation as a treat. Do not forget to compliment yourself too, and if
someone praises or compliment you, accept it and thank them. Let them know that
you’re proud of it too. Schedule time to do something you’ve always wanted to
do but did not have the time to fit it in. Above all, let go of disappointments
or the tasks you’ve failed to be accomplished – be kind to yourself. Instead,
make yourself an inventory of all the things you’ve impressed yourself.
“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.” –William Arthur Ward.
Don’t waste it by
keeping it hidden in a corner of your heart. People will not know how you feel
if you keep everything to yourself. Show the people whom matters to you how
they make a difference in your live. Remind them of their importance, just like
how you would want others to remember yours.