Inspiration and resources for balance before burnout

Ten Ways to Say Thank You

Being a "whole" teacher means seeing all the good we have in our lives and being thankful for it.  One of the top ten teacher stresses I write about in the Ten Days to Less Stress E-course (see home page) is feeling a lack of appreciation.  We all love being appreciated and by now you have heard me say how important it is to give that which you’d like most to receive.  This could not be more important than in showing our gratitude to others.  So here are ten simple, yet creative, ways to say thank you:

1.  Just say it – The most important part of saying thank you is the sincerity in which you say it.  Take the time to look the person in the eye and tell them specifically what you are thankful for and why you appreciate it.  Try this with strangers and service providers.

2. Send flowers – Whether it’s a bouquet or a single flower from your yard, flowers are a great way to make someone feel special.

3. Send a personal note or card – Again, don’t forget to make it personal and say how they touched you.  A humorous card goes a long way.

4. Leave a treat – Fresh baked cookies, fruit, or even some candy … who doesn’t love an unexpected snack?

5. Give a small trinket – Give a mug, colorful notepad, or silly supplies that will remind them of your appreciation every time they use them. 

6. Donate to a charity – Make a donation in the person’s name and send them a copy.  This is a great way to give twice and spread your gratitude even further.

7. Make your own certificate of appreciation – This is easy to do on the computer.  Be creative with the title.

8. Write a letter to a local newspaper or an announcement for the intercom – Sometimes an act is so moving that you want to tell the world, and we could all use some more good news.

9.  Give a gift certificate – This could be a small amount to a local coffee shop, restaurant, book store, or movie theater or make it yourself and offer a night of babysitting, car wash, or homemade meal.

10. Decorate the person’s door, workspace, or car – Streamers, balloons, and a great big thank you can go along way.

I would love to hear how you’ve shown your appreciation or how you have been thanked.  Leave a comment and share your experiences.  Who did you thank?  What did you do? How did they respond?  Have fun with it.

Tags: Gratitude, stop teacher burnout, stop teacher stress, teacher stress, teachers, thank you
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