7 Simple Ways to Make This Thanksgiving a “Thinks-Giving”

The origin of the word “thank” is closely related to the word “think.” So, to thank someone is to let them know you are thinking about them.

With this definition in mind, here are 7 simple ways in which you might thank those who are in your thoughts this Thanksgiving season:

[1] Send someone a thank you note: Email (or, to make it even more special and memorable, handwrite and send by snail-mail) a brief note to let them know how they have made a difference in your life. Make it personal and be specific.

[2] Write someone a glowing LinkedIn recommendation: Take two minutes to post a LinkedIn recommendation for someone whose performance and/or contributions you would like to publicly acknowledge.

[3] Write an author a 5-Star book review: Take two minutes to submit a book review (on Amazon, GoodReads, or elsewhere) to let the author know that they made an impact on you and to help them to spread the word.

[4] Like, Comment, and Share their posts: Seek opportunities to amplify the work of others on social media; doing so is a win-win all around! They will receive increased visibility…and so will you (along with their gratitude!). ?

[5] Catch someone doing something right: It’s so easy to take people for granted – or to only notice when they do something wrong. So (especially for leaders), show those around you that you notice and appreciate them, and you will make their day.

[6] Be a connector: If you have great people in your circle who you think might enjoy and benefit from knowing one another, then why not (with their permission and preauthorization, of course) introduce them to one another!

[7] Pay it forward: If someone does something nice and kind and thoughtful for you, in addition to thanking that person, why not go ahead and do a random act of kindness for someone else!

There are many other ways of practicing “Thinks-giving” beyond the seven ways mentioned above but, hopefully, this list will give you some “food” for thought and a running start.

And as you do, keep in mind these “4 G’s”: be Genuine; be Generous; be Grateful; and be Graceful.

Remember that giving the gift of appreciation costs almost nothing, but can make someone’s day, week, or year…or even their life.

And once you get in the habit of doing so around the Thanksgiving holidays, you just may find that the opportunity to commit “random acts of ‘thinks-giving’” never goes out of season.

Thanksgiving wishes to you and yours -- I am thankful to have you as part of my circle... Todd