Being grateful is one of the highest values to live by; however, sometimes we don’t voice our appreciation enough at work or in our relationships. It’s important to be able to say thank you or show gratitude. Everyone likes to be appreciated and know they matter.
Why should you express gratitude to others?
Expressing gratitude can do wonders for your relationships. When your spouse or children know that you appreciate what they do for you, it can create a feeling of love and contentment. Studies also show that gratitude exercises can help raise happiness levels and make people more positive.
How to express gratitude
Have you ever noticed that the most successful people are often those who express gratitude? That’s because being grateful isn’t just a positive attitude. It’s also a mindset. Gratitude creates focus and productivity. It allows you to build an environment where it’s easier to do your best work.
Here are some ways to show appreciation for the people in your life:
- Just say it.
A simple “thank you” or “I appreciate you” can go a long way. It’s also important not to underestimate this kind of gratitude. Complimenting someone can boost their self-esteem and make them feel better about themselves, leading to more success at work and home.
- Write a letter.
This is a great way to express gratitude, especially if someone has gone above and beyond to help you or do something special for you. A letter can also provide closure if there’s been an argument or offer encouragement if someone is having a hard time.
Send a handwritten note or card in the mail with a personal message inside. You can even include a gift card or coupon — as long as it’s not too expensive or inappropriate (i.e., don’t give your boss an expensive gift card after they gave you a raise).
- Give a gift
Sometimes, the best way to express gratitude is through the simple act of giving someone a gift. You can give a gift as a way of thanking someone for their hard work or expressing appreciation for something that person has done for you. If you want to show gratitude for something specific — such as an anniversary — consider giving a personalized gift such as hand-picked flowers or a card with a personal note inside.
- Give a hug or handshake with a smile.
This is a good option when you want to show your gratitude but don’t want to be too intimate with someone. It’s also an appropriate greeting for friends and acquaintances at work or school.
- Meet in person and express gratitude
Meeting in person is a great way to express gratitude to someone. It’s always nice to tell a person how much they mean to you in person. It’s also helpful if you can make a big deal out of it.
- Listen and be present
One of the best ways to show gratitude is by listening. So many people want to be heard and understood. Listening shows that you care about what they have to say and respect them as a person.
Be present. Try not to check your phone or watch when spending time with someone else. Be fully engaged in the conversation and interact with your full attention.
- Help them out.
Aim to always be there for a loved one or a friend when they need you, and go above and beyond what’s required of you. For example, if someone asks you to pick up their dry cleaning, go ahead and get their groceries too and drop them off by their house on your way home from work. Or if someone asks for help moving furniture, take care of any other tasks they may have around the house if you notice they are very busy.
- Encourage others to try new things.
When someone you care about is hesitant about trying something new, encourage them. “I know you’re nervous, but I think it would be so fun!” or “I know you’re scared, but I think it’ll be great, and I am right here with you!”. Such openness can be an important factor in helping others to feel more confident and open about opportunities they might not have thought of before.
- Appreciate in social media
If you’re not already using social media as a way to express gratitude, start now. Gratitude posts are great for sharing what makes you happy. They can also encourage others to do the same. You can use social media to find new ways to express gratitude. For example, if there’s an issue in your community or around the world that’s making you feel grateful, share this information on your page so others can see it too.
- Give them flowers.
Flowers are a wonderful way to say “thank you.” They don’t have to be expensive — even a bunch of wildflowers picked from a nearby field can mean a lot. If you want to get something more elaborate, try sending a person roses or tulips in shades that match their personality.
- Take them to coffee or for lunch.
A simple way to show someone you care is to have lunch with them or grab a coffee. This can be especially meaningful if you have a friend who doesn’t often get out of the office and has been working hard lately. Another great thing to do is to buy a co-worker, friend, or family member dinner or lunch at their favorite restaurant or café.
- Compliment them for their talent.
Everyone has something about them that makes them unique and wonderful, whether it’s a hobby, skill, or specific interest. If you’ve been lucky enough to witness this trait, tell them how much you appreciate it!
You can have more joy if you know how to express gratitude and connect with people. We built Joyscore because we think that happy people create a better world. Download the app now.
Gratitude should be a part of every interpersonal relationship. It brings people closer together and helps relationships run more smoothly. Gratitude can be communicated in many different ways, but the most effective method is when we express our gratitude to others in person. This shows that you really care about them, and it will be much more effective than any message or note could ever be.
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