Do you know people who go above and beyond to make your life better and more enjoyable? I am sure you have answered, “Yes!” Each one of us at least knows one such person and I believe it’s only fair to show our gratitude to the people that go the extra mile for us unconditionally.
Here are 12 simple ways to show gratitude to those special people in your life
- Tell them how they make you feel. This might be the easiest way to let people know how much you appreciate them. Just tell them. Watch how much they appreciate the compliment.
- Take them to do something they have always wanted to do. It might be a meal at the most exclusive restaurant in town, or a night spent sleeping under the stars. It will be something neither of you ever forget.
- Give a small token of affection. Take the time to find something they will love. It doesn’t have to something expensive, just meaningful! Tell them the gift is for being so awesome and wonderful!
- Help them try something new that is beyond their comfort zone. There is no bigger favor you can do for someone than helping him or her move beyond his or her comfort zone. It might be things like riding a horse, swimming, dancing, trekking, skydiving, snorkeling or scuba diving. If you help them face their fears, you will be their real life hero!
- Do something for them they hate to do themselves. You might wash their car, clean their desk, or wash the dishes.
- Give them a compliment. Tell them how great they are at whatever they do. Everyone enjoys a sincere compliment.
- Send a note of appreciation. Aside from bills or advertising flyers no one gets real mail anymore unless it’s their birthday! Surprise them by sending a thank you note through the mail. Tell them how much you appreciate them for who they are.
- Give a donation in their name to a worthy cause. Find a charity that the object of your gratitude feels a strong connection to and make a donation in their name. Send them a quick note to let them know about it.
- Help someone who is important to them. Do something for their children or siblings or parents. Get creative and think! How could you help someone that’s important to them?
- Leverage Social Media. Make an announcement to your friends and followers on your social media accounts. Let them know how great this special person is and how much you appreciate them. Get everyone in on the action.
- Listen Intently. Pay extra close attention to what that special person is saying when they speak to you. You have no idea how much people appreciate it when you focus all of your energy on them and give them your 100% focus and attention.
- Take them out for a meal. There’s something about not having to pay for lunch that makes the rest of the day seem so much better. Take them out for a meal to their favorite restaurant.
Be gracious when the situation calls for it. Take a little time to show gratitude to those people that deserve it. They will enjoy the recognition, and you will feel good about yourself for making the effort. There are never enough people on your side, so value those who are there for you unconditionally.
