Too often we neglect to thank those we appreciate for both their big and small acts of kindness…
The start of a new year is a perfect time to modify our attitudes and behaviors. Taking the time to let others know we value them is something we can do differently. One way to thank others for what it is about them that we like, respect, and admire is to tell them in person.
John Kralik, in his newly released 2010 paperback, A Simple Act of Gratitude, shares another strategy he has discovered that is quite valuable — writing an old-fashioned thank-you note. Kralik tells a thoughtful story about his year-long project of perfecting the art of preparing and sending handwritten thank-you notes, and offers the following four simple steps to help make this meaningful change in your own life.
- Grab a pen and paper. Refrain from sending an e-mail. Handwritten notes feel special, almost like the person is there with you. Kralik uses plain off-white cards that have his name printed on the front and his name and address on the envelope. I like to use an assortment of different note cards, enjoying the variety and complement to the season or events.
- Be specific. Perhaps start by thanking the people who just gave you holiday or birthday presents. Open with “Dear So-and-So,” identify the gift, and say one sincere thing about why you like it.
- Dig into the past. After thanking your close friends and family, write to people who helped you at critical moments. Kralik reached out to the doctor whose operation cured his pain, and to another doctor who told him to stop drinking.
- Keep it short. Your message doesn’t need to be long and eloquent — Kralik’s cards are small, with room for only three or four sentences. By sticking to a few lines you keep the focus on your thank-you and on the other person’s kindness.