To achieve our big dreams and get through day-to-day life, we need support and encouragement from others. If someone has improved your life in a significant way, look for equally significant ways to thank them and show you care (and no these don’t have to require spending money). The more thoughtful and personal your thank you is, the more the person will understand that you valued their help. Additional evidence for why gratitude matters. What inexpensive, yet significant ways can you show someone you appreciate them? Read on for our most creative ideas.
Put thought into your writing.
At the end of the day, nothing beats a homemade, handwritten thank you card. But challenge yourself to go beyond the expected in your messaging.
Get specific.
Don’t just tell them “thank you” and leave it at that. Include exactly what you’re thankful for and what, specifically, resulted from their kindness. For instance, if you used your birthday money to purchase a new suit that made you feel extra confident during a recent meeting—let them know! Or, if their encouragement gave you the support you needed to take a risk on a new business opportunity—thank them for their incredible endorsement.
Commit to a long-term thank you.
When someone does something kind for you, the positive results might last for days, months, or even years to come. Let your thank you have a lasting effect, too. Show you care about someone’s thoughts and interests by periodically following up.
- Did they mention feeling unmotivated? Send them a link to an article, audio, or podcast you found particularly inspiring.
- Do they love to support local businesses and causes? Pick them up an extra jar of jelly the next time you’re at the farmer’s market or send them a text about your favorite local ice cream shop when they’re having a sale.
- Are they a busy mom or dad in need of some relaxation? Put together an at-home spa-day basket full of your favorite products. Here are three of our go-tos:
Without the aid of others, we would have trouble getting our businesses up and running, our kids to school when an unexpected meeting comes up, or a much-needed bowl of chicken noodle soup when we’re sick. Kindness makes the world go-round, and creatively showing that you care ensures it’ll remain a wonderful place to live.
It’s important to show kindness to your friends and family members and inspire them to do the same. Head over to our blog, “Are You an Inspirational Leader?” to learn more!
