How to Improve Your Life

From the get-go, my parents relentlessly taught me to thank people.  It wasn't even an option.  I admit that, as an adult, "Thank you" falls out of my mouth somewhat automatically;   perhaps I'm not even aware that I'm saying it.

I know this, though: even without thought, it is better to thank people, even in the most casual of circumstances, than it is to not thank people.  It is minimally, polite.   In an age when we all seem to be on edge, politeness and courtesy are much needed antidotes

Upon reflection, however, it has become more than that to me.   The expression of thanks humbles us; it is a reminder that we are beholden to others for what we have.   As much as we may like to believe that we are self-made and self-sufficient and may not need others - that is not the reality.  In our society, every day and almost every minute we are reliant upon each other.   The expression of thanks acknowledges that teamwork.

The expression of thanks, then, also builds bonds between us.   And again, in a particularly divisive period in our history, this linkage from one to another is a good thing.     Even if it may be someone with whom we disagree, to express thanks. . .to admit that we are reliant upon them. . .is a very good exercise.

If you appreciate others expressing gratitude toward you - then you know the following is true.   It's a good feeling to be thanked.  It is an acknowledgment of all of you've done or who you are.   That reinforcement, then, just wants us to be better people.

And here's the thing. . .being grateful makes each one of us better people.   I know I feel better if I reach out beyond myself to express gratitude - I've not only reinforced the bonds that tie us together, but I have done something good for another person.

So, write a few thank you cards and put them on co-worker's keyboards.    Take someone to coffee as an expression of gratitude.   Unexpectedly go out of your way to shake someone's hand and thank them for all of their hard work and contributions.

You will improve their lives. . .and yours.

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My book "Courageous Questions, Confident Leaders" is available on Amazon Kindle.