#102: The Power of Thank You

I read on another blog this week about the need to say thank you.

Many years ago, a seminar speaker challenged those in attendance to write 10 thank you notes a month. For a period of time I did and the results were amazing. I don't recall why I stopped.

So, here's a challenge for us: Let's buy a pack of thank you cards and a book of Forever Stamps then send at least one thank you note a week. Make the messages sincere and handwritten. Then enjoy the results.

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To your doctor: "Thank you and your staff for the fine care you offer me. I appreciate being able to discuss any health problem with you."

To the cleaner: "Thank you for the professional job you do for me. My clothes always look great after you're done with them."

To your grocery store manager: "Thank you for offering a clean store and friendly employees to me when I shop in your store. I always feel as if my business is appreciated."

To the gas station employees: "Thank you for your friendly smiles each time I stop in. You make doing business with you a pleasure."

To your pastor (if appropriate): "Thank you for your fine sermons. You leave me feeling inspired. I appreciate all that you do for us."

Add to your list:

* The vet for your pets
* The florist
* Your yard service (if you use one)
* Your dentist
* Day care center manager
* Auto repair facility
* A helpful co-worker
* A pleasant business associate
* Your computer repair person
* The manager and staff of your gym
* The manager and staff of your bowling center
* The owner or manager and staff of your favorite restaurants
* Your favorite coffee shop
* The clothing stores where you shop
* Your local law enforcement department
* Your local fire department
* Your military reserve unit
* The cemetery operator where your loved ones rest in peace.

You get the idea.

Your list will multiply as you get into this habit.

So, too, will the satisfaction you receive from acknowledging the service provided to you on a regular basis.

Let me begin our challenge, albeit by electronic response instead of handwritten note:

Thank you for the support and encouragement all of you offer to me daily. So much of it comes when it is desperately needed, although you couldn't know that.

Thank you for the smiles you bring to me and the new friendships I've made with the fantastic people on this site.

Thank you to those who have chosen to become active members of the sites I lead.

Thank you to those of you who have experienced profound weight loss and shared your trials and triumphs with us.

And, thank you for reading my daily messages. Through these I try to encourage, inspire and humor. I appreciate all of your responses and the caring attitudes you have shown me.

I hope you have a blessed weekend and reap the benefits of the power of a thank you.

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"Always will I dig for reasons to applaud...when I am moved to praise I will shout from the roofs." Og Mandino