There’s a special emphasis on gratitude in November. What’s the best way to say thank you?

As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches (in the U.S.), there’s a lot of extra conversation about gratitude. And certainly, even in this crazy year of 2020, we have a lot to be thankful for.

For this moment, let’s focus on being thankful for what other people do—either for the world in general or for us specifically.

What’s the best way to express our gratitude—besides (or in addition to) gifts of flowers, candy, jewelry, or money?

Be specific.

“Thanks for all you do” is not especially meaningful. It’s better than nothing, but not by much.

Instead, be specific. At work:

“Thanks for helping me put together that presentation.”

“Thanks for fixing my computer.”

Or even:

“Thanks for your bright smile and cheery greeting every morning.”

Thanks! Thank you!At home:

“Thanks for emptying the dishwasher.”

“Thanks for taking out the garbage.”

“Thanks for planning the menus, keeping track of the food we have on hand, and doing the grocery shopping.”

In other situations:

“Thanks for serving on that committee and taking on that special project.”

“Thanks for helping me get my packages to my car.”

“Thanks for loaning me your umbrella.”

That extra effort to be specific lets the person receiving your message know that you genuinely noticed and appreciate what they did and you’re not just mouthing automatic, meaningless words out of habit.

Thank you for reading this!

 

For some shareable inspirational quotes about gratitude and thanksgiving, check out

40 Quotes on Gratitude and Thanksgiving

Jacquelyn Lynn
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