In 2021, we’re focusing on joy.
When we strive to practice gratitude, it’s often viewed from an internal lens.
Whileself-expressions of gratitudeare essential, extending that gratitude to others can also go a long way.
Here are a few ways you’re able to start:
Write letters.
Growing up, many people were taught to write thank-you letters after receiving birthday or holiday gifts.
Sending a letter of appreciation doesn’t have to be confined to such specific moments, though.
Think about the times you’ve received an unexpected piece of snail mail.
You probably felt special and acknowledged, right?
Well, allow someone else to experience that feeling, too.
Finally, express those thoughts in the letter.
Research shows writingaffectionate letters can actually lower cholesterol, making the benefits of this practice threefold.
On the one hand, you’re cultivating gratitude.
On the other, you’re making someone feel loved.
And finally, you’re supporting your heart health.
If you need more guidance, here is astep-by-step guide for writing a love letter.
Learn someone’s love language and respond to it.
While neither of these responses is wrong, they may not be the most impactful.
Instead, learn someone’slove languageso you might express gratitude in a way that’s meaningful to them.
According to research from Gary Chapman, Ph.D., one of the most common love languages iswords of affirmation.
For those people, verbally expressing your gratitude by saying “thank you.
You mean a lot to me.
I feel so loved by you,” etc., will likely mean more than a gift would.
Give someone a bear hug.
As mentioned before, not everyone is a fan ofphysical touch, so know your audience.
Practice active listening.
What does listening have to do with gratitude?
You’re showing them that you appreciate who they are and what they have to say.
Other ways to show gratitude:
Bottom line.
There are severalbenefits of gratitude, both in terms of physical and mental health.
Showing gratitude for others is just one way you’re able to reconnect to that joy.
