Ordinary Gratitude

The Art of the Thank-You Note

In this age of email, voicemail and instant messaging, the handwritten thank-you note has been all but forgotten. But it is still one of the very best ways to say thank you -- whether for a dinner, special gift or kind word. And in the business world, the written thank-you note is truly a way to stand out, especially after an interview, important meeting, or referral.

So how do you write a thank-you note?

1. Be prepared. Keep a supply of simple note cards on hand. You'll be ready to jot down a note anytime. The small size of the card lets you be quick and concise.
2. Think beyond the note card. You can write a thank-you message on postcards or on the back of photos.
3. Keep it simple. Say thank you; mention the item and what you'll use it for, or if the note is an acknowledgment of someone's efforts, mention what you really appreciate about the other person. Allude to the future (i.e., we'll look forward to seeing you again soon). Then simply sign off.
4. Mum's the word on money. If you received a gift of money, simply thank the giver for "your generosity."

He got a job!

One of my older brothers has been out of work for several months now. He was on half-time for months before that. After sending out numerous resumes, he had a promising interview last week. He called last night to say that all the searching had finally paid off and he got a job!

Woohoo!

My brother is in his 60s. All his life, all he wanted to be was an architect. When one of his high school teachers said that he'd never make it, he defied them and graduated college with honors. He worked for the same firm for over 20 years before he was laid off. With the economy in the toilet, commercial development was halted and the firm had no more work for him. They did their best to keep him on for as long as they could, but if no one is building, there's no need for an architect.

Today I'm so very grateful that my brother finally got good news. It's tough to make the switch at his age. But he persevered, never gave up, and never got down about it.

Lindt Chili Dark Chocolate

I don't ordinarily focus on a particular product in my posts, but this time I just couldn't resist. I am so grateful for Lindt Excellence Chocolates, especially the new chili dark flavor. But I'm not the one who likes this item; my husband really does.

I happened to discover Lindt Chili Chocolate on a recent trip to the drug store. I picked one up and brought it home for my husband, who devoured it. He loved it! So today, when I was at the same drug store, I looked for it again. With all the chocolates on display for Valentine's Day, I had a little trouble finding it. When I finally did, I grabbed the last two bars they had in stock.

Needless to say, my husband was ecstatic when I got home with his special treat. When I gave it to him I said, "This is just a token of appreciation for all the wonderful things you do for me and my family." I got a great big kiss in return (which I am also grateful for!).

It's nice to have a list of little inexpensive things you can pick up for others. It's a great way to say "thank you" or "I was thinking of you." My husband and my mom are pretty easy because they always want chocolate, but if I can find a favorite chocolate, that's even better. One of my grandsons loves books, the other loves puzzles, so when I find them on sale, I grab them to share with them at their next visit. My old business partner loved flourless chocolate cake, so I would bring a piece for her to our one-on-one meetings along with something like cheesecake or scones for me. 

When someone tells you something they like, make a mental note or write it on a list to carry with you. Then when special days come around, or you just want to give them a treat, it will be easier to  choose a gift that really says "You're special."

Secrets of Success: Gratitude

I want to share this post I found at iafrica.com, a site for those doing business in Africa. These Secrets of Success are valuable for doing business anywhere.

Secrets of Success: Gratitude

Gratitude leads to success. Gratitude turns fear into freedom, denial into acceptance and anger into love.

Gratitude generates positive energy, happiness and peace. Cicero, an ancient Roman philosopher and politician, said that "gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others." Living with grace and gratitude leads to happiness and spiritual development. Thanks giving, grace and gratitude purify our hearts, sharpen our souls and attract abundance into our lives.

Given the pain and misery in the world around us, we should be deeply grateful for the suffering we have been spared. And, if we are thankful for the little things in life, our appreciation of the bigger things will be all the greater. Ungratefulness generates negative energy, contraction and suffering. It fuels greed, jealousy and mistrust. It creates an impoverished mind.

Exercise an attitude of gratitude. Say "thank you for life" everyday — and you will not need any other prayer. Awaken your potential, knowing that the power of gratitude is within you.

Affirmation: I am grateful for all I have

Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others. – Cicero

via iafrica.com

Boost your career by saying "thank you"

Say "thank you" as often you can. Sadly, gratitude is not that common. You can be uncommon, and memorable, simply by sending a thank-you note whenever it's warranted. When you can, regularly (and sincerely) thank your coworkers, your customers, your suppliers, your boss, your friends, your enemies. The appreciation you reap can only help you. Plus, looking for the positive puts you in a positive frame of mind and that is a good thing.

From 10 Essential career resolutions for 2010 via news.myjoyonline.com

Nancy, a previous boss, was always ready to say "thank you" for whatever work I did. One day I asked her why she was thanking me since I was just doing my job. "I appreciate you 'just doing your job'," she told me, "and I want you to know that." Nancy taught me the importance of expressing gratitude at the office. I know that I was willing to work harder and go the extra mile because my boss recognized my effort -- and said so.

Thank you, Nancy, for showing me the value of saying "thank you" at the office.

How often do you say "thank you" at work? Is there anyone you would like to thank, but haven't?