Giving thanks can make you happier and healthier. It’s a scientific fact that feelings of gratitude trigger the release of the happiness hormones dopamine and serotonin in the brain. Thankfulness manifests physically in our bodies, slowing our breath, creating a sensation of warmth and leading to an emotional response, often tears or smiles. Express your thanks for gifts, support, shared special occasions or just being a friend with notes, gifts and reflection during this season of gathering.
Thank-You Notes 101
A well-written thank-you note is like a work of art: it’s unique, evocative and inspires connection. But sitting down to a blank page can be overwhelming. Follow our tips for crafting a thank-you note from the heart, impacting both the sender and the receiver.
Timing is Important
Etiquette calls for a prompt response to a gift. Don’t let too much time pass between the event and your note of thanks—send it as soon as possible. Keep in mind that the only “bad” thank-you note is the one that doesn’t get sent.
Go Old School
Step away from the keyboard and pick up a pen for the best thank-you note experience. Your handwriting, selection of stationery and choice of stamp are personal touches that can make a recipient feel special. Use your neatest penmanship and be sure to add the date, making your note a keepsake that marks a shared moment in time.
Write from the Heart
It can be a challenge to craft a thank-you that puts our strong emotions of gratitude into words. Reach beyond just being polite to convey your feelings in your notes. Add personal touches: share specific details about what you like about the gift, how it made you feel and how you’ll treasure it. Stay on point—short and sweet is a fine recipe for a meaningful thank-you. It doesn’t have to be long and formal to communicate your sincere gratitude. Use your own style and voice, especially between dear friends.
Host Gifts
Hosting guests is fun, but it also takes time and money. Bringing a small gift for the host of a dinner party, holiday event or weekend gathering is a nice gesture that is never expected but always appreciated. Here are our tips and ideas for host gifts to express your gratitude.
Host Gift Tips
*Instead of asking if you can bring something, ask, “What can I bring to help out?” The answer might be, “Nothing,” but the host will appreciate the gesture if you offer help.
*When giving a host gift around Christmas, it could be misconstrued as a holiday gift which could cause the recipient to feel guilty if they do not have something for you in return. To help alleviate any potential awkwardness, be sure to let them know the gift is to thank them for hosting.
* The gift should not be something they are expected to use at that particular event, but something they could use immediately if they choose. It could create awkwardness for both the giver and receiver if an item is given with the intention of being used at the gathering and is not used. It should be something that can be used by the host at a later date if it doesn’t match their menu or plans for that gathering. Resist the urge to take the gift back or have hurt feelings if it isn’t used.
Host Gift Ideas
*A bottle of wine or the preferred spirit of the host is always a great gift. While the host may choose to open it right away, that should not be expected.
*Bring an appetizer or dessert on a nice, new serving platter and let the host know the dish is theirs to keep.
*A floral arrangement or small plant is a universal gift symbolizing friendship.
*Wrap up a quality bag of coffee or canister of tea, depending on the host’s preference.
*Home accents like decorative soap, a seasonal hand towel or candle are elegant host gifts.
Gratitude Journal
Keeping a gratitude journal may help you to reflect and keep your mind focused on positive things, even on difficult days. But sometimes it can be hard to think of what to write. Here’s our list of 30 prompts to help fill November with an attitude of gratitude.
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What made you smile today?
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Who is a family member you’re grateful for and why?
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What was the last book you read that you enjoyed?
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What is one thing you enjoy about your day-to-day routine?
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Think back to the last time you laughed. What made you laugh?
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What’s a song that makes you want to dance?
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The best hour of the day today was _____. Why?
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What’s the best meal you’ve had this week?
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What’s a problem you helped solve today?
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What was the last thank you letter you wrote? Who did you send it to and why?
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What is your favorite season and why?
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What is something that inspired you today?
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What item of clothing, jewelry or shoes makes you feel great?
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What was the last movie or show you watched that you enjoyed?
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Who is a friend you’re grateful for and why?
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What about today would you like to remember in 5 years?
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List three characteristics that you would use to describe a great mentor.
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If you could do anything today, what would you do?
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What is a good choice that you made today?
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List three things you are grateful to have learned.
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When was the last time you danced?
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Where is your “happy place?”
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Which of your five senses are you most thankful for today? Why?
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Share a happy holiday memory.
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Who helped you achieve a goal? What did they do to support you?
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Name three things you love about yourself.
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Describe a rejection that you are grateful to have received.
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Look out the nearest window. What catches your attention?
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Who would you like to get to know better?
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How can you share your time and talents today?