When Was The Last Time You Said THANK YOU?

Thank you. A phrase so simple, yet so powerful, that it can transform both your business and personal relationships.

When was the last time you said “Thank You” to someone and really meant it? I mean a real, genuine, authentic thank you that comes from your heart and not just causally saying it? Can you recall?

If Words of Affirmation is not your main love language then you might want to express your thank you in a little gift with a sweet note attached. To be honest, I do get thank yous from people in a text or email, or through gifts, but my top love languages are Words of Affirmation and Physical Touch. That is why it means a lot more to me when someone writes me a handwritten letter, tells me in person, or speaks to me over the phone. To me these are much more meaningful ways to express your appreciation to the person you are giving thanks to.

Do you have people in your life who have gone above and beyond for you? Who believed in you when no one else did? Who stood beside you as your strength during hard times? Who raised you up when you were down? Who were always there for you when you needed them? I am sure you have these people in your life at work and at home.

So here is my suggestion: write down three people who have made a big difference in your life in the past year and reach out to genuinely thank them. I would suggest doing so in person, by phone or by writing a letter, as in hand writing a letter – no texting and no emailing. Below are some tips if you need help:

1. Ask the person first to see when they have some time to talk to you.
2. Make sure to set the mood and tone, and free your mind of other distractions.
3. Be clear and be specific when you are expressing yourself.
4. Make sure that if you are speaking to them in person that you look them in the eye when talking to them.
5. Be authentic and be yourself even if you are nervous. The other person may think it is quite endearing how genuine you are and will see that you are taking it very seriously.
6. Lastly, make sure when you end the conversation – if in person – to do so with affection, like a hug or a kiss – depending on your relationship to that person! If it’s by phone, then a final “thank you” in a sweet tone, like you really mean it, will do.  If you are writing a letter, then make sure to include your most honest thoughts and not just a few lines, and be sure to share the reasons why you are thanking them and how they have helped you.