Continuing with the theme of gratitude, when you directly express your gratitude and thankfulness for another human being, not only do they feel great, but you do too. Consider the people who have helped you in your life — a teacher who helped you get through chemistry, a coach who shifted your perspective, a friend who gave you a place to stay or a helping hand through a tough time. Write each person a letter and describe in detail how they helped you and the impact it has had on your life. You might choose to write one letter a week for the next month or two or incorporate this activity into your weekly gratitude journalling. If at all possible, visit this person and read the letter out loud on a special day such as a birthday or anniversary or just an ordinary day. You may want to mention how often you think of them and what they did for you.
Studies reveal that the biggest boost to happiness occurs when you visit the person in person and read the letter. Happiness goes up and last from one week to one month after each visit! However, you may not be able to physically visit, in which case, it is fine to write a letter and mail it as that will also increase happiness, especially if done regularly.
Homework:
List ten people who have helped you and what they did that made an impact. (Consider people you know personally such as family members, friends, teachers; people you don’t know personally such as authors, politicians; or people who help you daily in small ways such as bus drivers, check out clerks, etc.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Pick one person from this list and write a letter of acknowledgement this week. If you can deliver it in person, all the better!
10 Minute Option:
Make the list above and start the letter writing next week. Verballly thank and appreciate people as you go through your daily life, e.g., you tell the postman, “thanks so much for hefting this heavy package all the way to my door!”
Enjoy!
Talane
