It’s a not-so-well-kept secret that it feels great to feel appreciated, so why not return the favor the next time someone shows you a little kindness? While for most people saying a heartfelt “thank you” is enough, if you’re really looking to show that you’re grateful for them, there are other ways to acknowledge their effort. Not only will these ideas make you feel good about yourself, they’ll also show the person that their actions mattered and that’s one powerful (and effective) thank you.
1. SEND A HANDWRITTEN NOTE
Show the person you want to thank how you feel by writing it all down. Who doesn’t get excited reading a good old fashioned note? Written words are powerful and require some extra thought, so this effort won’t go unnoticed. Besides, a nice, handwritten note is so much nicer to receive than a text, no matter how many heart emojis you throw in there.
2. SHOW THEM HOW YOU FEEL
The way you show someone how you feel depends on the other person. Some may love a little extra affection, while others may prefer for you to tell them how you’re feeling. Take a moment and think about what this specific person really appreciates, whether that’s quality time together, or a different gesture.
3. BAKE THEM A LITTLE SOMETHING
The quickest way through many people’s hearts is through their stomach. Bake or cook for them when you want to share the love. No one can resist some delicious homemade cookies.
Homemade cookies are a wonderful way to thank someone dear to you. (Teerasak Ladnongkhun / Shutterstock.com)
4. GIVE THEM SOME ATTENTION
Now that we have smartphones and social media, 100 percent undivided attention is a rare form of showing how much you care about someone. Put all distractions aside and focus on spending time together.
5. DO THEM A FAVOR
What better way to say thanks than to go out of your way and do something nice for that special person that they may not have time to do for themselves? Do the dishes, or clean the apartment. Maybe pick up some of their favorite coffee if you know that they’re out.
6. GET CREATIVE
If you’re artistic, create a drawing. If you’re musically talented, write them a song. If they love music, introduce them to a new artist they’d love. There are plenty of ways to channel that creativity energy, and you’ll probably enjoy the process as much as they’ll enjoy the end result.
7. SHARE HOW MUCH THEY MEAN TO YOU
Say thank you…and then tell them why you appreciate them or why they matter to you. Authentic flattery goes a long way, especially when that person may not hear it all the time.
