Gratitude: a simple principle for a better life

In today’s rushed world it’s rare to hear anyone give a sincere “thank you” to someone else.

I find when I go out of my way to make eye contact, smile and say “thank you” to someone (especially people with mind-numbingly boring jobs like taking orders at McDonalds), their countenance changes a bit and I usually get a smile back. It lifts my spirits and I like to think the person I said it to feels a bit better about their day as well.

It’s nice to know you’re appreciated, even if it’s in a small way. Such simple gestures can do a world of good for others as well as ourselves.

Why, if it’s so easy to do, why don’t we express our gratitude more freely?

I know I don’t I express my gratitude nearly enough to my wife for all she does for my son and me. I have a lot of friends who don’t know how much I truly appreciate them. And I don’t think I’ve thanked my boss for my job since the day I was hired.

Have you had any meaningful experiences expressing or receiving expressions of gratitude? As you read this article, did anyone come to mind that you realized you needed to thank for something? Leave word in the comments.

LivSimpl

For a great read on the subject of gratitude, I enthusiastically refer you to the Zen Habits article on Why Living a Life of Gratitude Can Make You Happy