This post is short, because the benefit is less in the reading, and more in the action. There isn’t much to say about this tiny action with big heart, except that it will lead to new connections, deeper connections, and more meaningful relationships.
The Tiny Action: Demonstrate your gratitude.
When you compare the amount of times that you are truly grateful during any given day, with the amount of times you thank someone specifically, you might notice a discrepancy. The reason for the discrepancy may be busyness and distraction, or perhaps you didn’t know how to say thanks, or you wanted to thank with a big gesture, and by the time you were done thinking about it, it was too big and so you didn’t do anything at all. And of course, there are of those times when we take things for granted and forget to thank for the things we get used to.
For the next 3 days, become hyper-aware of what and who makes you grateful. Pay close attention because while it might be obvious, it might be something that typically goes unnoticed. It might be something that just happened, or maybe it was something that occurred a few days ago passing by without the thanks it really deserved. There is no statute of limitations on thanks, so don’t hold back.
Demonstrate your gratitude by saying thank you from your very full heart. While a simple “thanks” will do, take it to the next level and let someone know why you are thankful. When you do that, you take the first step towards deeper connection, because what you are saying is, “I noticed how you are important in my life. I notice you.”
Deliver the message
I can think of so many times that I meant to say thank you, or wanted to elaborate, but I didn’t. Be prepared to deliver your message. Because you will be so tuned in to gratitude, you’ll be able to look someone in the eye and say, “Thank you for sharing that story, it meant so much and really helped me to think about what’s going on in my own life.”
In addition, have a notebook, so you can write down the connections that have passed by because you were too distracted to say thank you. Resolve those moments with a phone call, email, or by sending a small stack of thank you notes into the world.
Gratitude comes back with connection
Like anything you do in life, the more grateful you act, the more grateful you will be. Gratitude attracts gratitude and since grateful people are happier and more open, connections are inevitable.
If meaningful connection is what you are after, get big-hearted with your gratitude.
I am so grateful
For you. You take the time to read these words and consider them. You decide if they are right for your life and then take action, share them, challenge me, leave a comment, or ask a question. You are thoughtful about how you act and react, and that means so much to me. Thank you for being open. Thank you for being kind. Thank you for being an essential part of my journey here. I notice you.
