I grew up in a household that was generous when it came to holidays and birthday occasions. My grandparents were always quick to remember the milestones. They let me know they were thinking of me during the holidays. Something my parents always instilled in me was to write thank you notes no matter how big or small the gift. I used to dread the notes and hated taking the time to do them. It was not until my adult years that I appreciated the written acknowledgment of thanks.
Thank You Notes are Thoughtful
So why is it important to write thank you notes? Okay, yes call me “old school” but there’s something special about getting a note in the mail instead of a quickly typed out “Thank you text”. Thank you notes show that you took time out of your day to let that person know how much you appreciated them. The notes show that you are grateful for the thought and time taken to go out and pick out a card or gift. That same thoughtfulness you received should be given back, letting them know you care as much about them.
Keep it Simple
Notes do not have to be long-winded or full of emotions. They can be as simple as stating that you appreciate the thought. Or that you appreciate their generous gift or the fact they remembered something special. It can be nice to share what you will plan to do with the gift. Maybe you are saving it for your first car, or maybe you have been eyeing a new pair of shoes. It is important to let the person know you appreciate it and will use it.
What if you already have the gift or didn’t want or need it? It is still important to thank the other person and be courteous, withholding any feelings that you did not like or want it. Thank them anyway for their thoughtfulness and time in picking the gift out for you.
Skills of Empathy and Gratitude
By writing thank you notes, your child will learn the essential skills of empathy and gratitude. It will keep them humble and help them grow into giving and gracious adults. They will learn the value of receiving as well as giving in return. I’ve learned over the years how it is dire to feel appreciated when doing something for another but could not grasp the concept without participating in learning to appreciate. Encouraging these practices early on is crucial, much like teaching consistency and love in managing a child’s behavior. For more on that, you might find Managing Tantrums in Children with Love and Consistency helpful.
Boost Your Mood with Gratitude
Gratitude makes the other person feel loved and appreciated. But it also has been shown to boost your mood. In daily practice, it helps to build mindfulness to overcome even the worst circumstances. Also, thankfulness often is helpful in overcoming depression. It can help to bring a new lease on life and even appreciation of daily life events. If you’re interested in understanding how gratitude can have a profound impact on your mental health, you might find the Greater Good Science Center’s Guide on Practicing Gratitude a useful resource. This guide explores the science behind gratitude and how it contributes to overall well-being.
Final Thoughts
Writing thank you notes is more than just a polite gesture; it’s an expression of gratitude that enriches both the giver and the receiver. By taking the time to acknowledge the kindness of others, you reinforce the values of empathy and appreciation, fostering stronger relationships and a positive mindset. Encouraging this practice in children helps them develop important life skills, and in the process, boosts their own mood and well-being. So, the next time you receive a gift or kind gesture, take a moment to write a heartfelt thank you note—it’s a small act with a big impact.
