Ways to express gratitude
Just one glance at news headlines tells us that the world is going through a lot
at the moment. Be it the raging pandemic that has taken well over a million
lives worldwide and counting, or the forest fires that scientists have directly
attributed to climate change, nature is challenging our resilience. However, it is
not as if we are doing much to make the situation better either. The world is
also witnessing man-made turmoil- political instability, religious unrest, and
crumbling economy are realities that very much add to the misery of the most
vulnerable among us.
Why should you be grateful?
In times like this, it is easy to get pessimistic and complain about the state of
affairs. However, we often overlook the privileges we already have, that many
are deprived of. Are you able to see with your eyes? Are you able to walk? Can
you speak and convey your feelings? Are you able to pick up your newborn
baby in your arms? Do you have enough to eat? If answers to all of the above
questions is a yes, you have so much to be thankful for. You have been
blessed with a sound body and mind, which you should be using to bring a
positive change, not just into the lives of your near and dear ones, but also to
benefit the community at large.
Why is it essential to express gratitude?
Gratitude is not just about acknowledging all that you have and being happy
about it. Gratitude is about taking action and doing something for others,
hence, truly conveying the gratitude you feel. By incorporating acts of
gratitude in your day-to-day life, you can create a lasting impact on the lives of
people around you. True gratitude is best conveyed through actions. Your
deeds demonstrating gratitude have much more meaning to them, then you
merely experiencing a sense of gratitude towards others. Therefore, it is
important that you identify the means and methods through which you can
convey gratitude effectively.
10 ways to express gratitude
Here are some ways and methods through which you can convey your
gratitude, and make a positive difference in other people’s lives:
1. Volunteer for community welfare
Time is invaluable. By volunteering, you will be dedicating your time and
efforts towards community endeavours. You will not only be expressing
your gratitude for all that you have but will also be able to forge close
relationships with people whose problems you are working to solve.
Moreover, you will obtain precious experience in organising community
efforts.
2. Provide clothing to homeless shelters
Instead of throwing out old clothes or clothes that you no longer wear,
consider donating them to the local homeless shelter or orphanage. All
you have to do is rearrange your wardrobe, and for sure, you will find
some clothes that are of no use to you, but will certainly be useful for
those in homeless shelters and orphanages.
3. Tip generously to people working in the service industry
The way to acknowledge and be thankful for the good food you ate at a
restaurant, is not through a yelp review. Consider leaving a generous tip
for the waiter/waitress, every-time you have a great meal at a
restaurant. Your tip will communicate your gratitude. This goes for all
people who provide you service of any kind.
4. Be creative to show gratitude to your loved ones
Surprise your partner with breakfast in bed, or plan a second honeymoon
for your parents, there are several big or small gestures that would
effectively convey the gratitude you feel for your loved ones. All you
have to do is be a little creative.
5. Let others make use of your talent
Financial or material help is not the only way you can help others and
convey your gratitude. Letting others make use of your talent and
expertise is also a remarkable deed of gratitude. Each of us has some
talent or the other. Are you good at drafting resumes? Help someone
write their resume. Are you a good cook? Teach how to cook a dish for
someone who wants to learn.
6. Give donations to charities
Consider skipping your weekly parlour appointment this weekend, and
instead donate that money to the charity that is doing good work in
supporting vulnerable people.
7. Pay a visit to the sick and the elderly
We all crave comfort and support when we are sick. Pay a visit to your
local nursing home, sit beside and talk to people who are sick and who
don't have anyone else by their side. Also, consider visiting elderly
homes and spend some time conversing with the elderly. They have
valuable wisdom to offer, if only you have the patience to listen.
8. Treat others with respect and courtesy
We are all told when we are young- "treat others how you want to be
treated". However, this simple thing is something many people forget.
So always treat people that you encounter in your day-to-day routine,
with respect and courtesy. This is how you can show gratitude, every
day.
9. Convey your gratitude in person
Texting thanks from your cabin to a colleague who helped you solve a
tricky issue, is not the way to convey gratitude. If you are truly grateful
for the help, make sure to visit him at his desk, verbalise your
appreciation in person, and treat him to a meal or coffee.
10. Say a word of encouragement to those who need it
All of us go through dark times. When all seems lost, a word of
encouragement can lift up our spirits and help us get by through a hard
day. Even though gratitude is all about deeds, sometimes words can be
more helpful. You cannot solve all problems of all the people around you,
all the time. However, you can always be compassionate and
encouraging to those having a hard time. Your empathy can have a life-
changing impact on someone’s life.
Conclusion
Be generous with your compliments, and be cautious with your criticisms. Be
thoughtful with your gifts and mindful of others feelings. Keeping a few things
like this in life, you will be able to make gratitude a part of your life. Start
expressing your gratitude in unique ways, and you will be surprised how your
life will be filled with true joy, happiness, and contentment.
