3 Ways to Say "Thank You!"

“The lips of the righteous nourish many” Prov. 10:21

 Learning how to say “Thank You” in a way that is remembered and treasured takes a little thought. But at this holiday season, think of your thanks as little verbal, or written, gifts especially chosen for a particular person.Here are three ways to show your thanks to a special someone, whether it’s a spouse, a family member, a friend or a co-worker (adapted from chapter seven: When I Say This, He Hears That).1. AFFIRMATION: What does ____________  do well? Affirmations acknowledge the effort that a person puts into something and shows that you recognize their good qualities.Start your affirmation focusing on the action, followed by your feelings. Here are two examples:

• You did a great job (describe it) and I feel (state your feeling: proud, relieved, …)
• You are (state quality you are affirming) and I feel (cared for, loved….)

2. APPRECIATION: What does _____________ do that pleases you? Appreciation tells the person that you enjoy something they have done for you.  Be specific

• “Thank you for caring enough to ____________.  It was very thoughtful of you. I especially appreciate you doing this today when you’re so busy.”
• Or: “You are so good at remembering details.”

3. ADMIRATION: Do they have a good sense of humor? Are they kind? Is there a character quality you admire, or some spiritual gift that blesses you? Identify it.

• Even if a person seems uncomfortable, remember that underneath everyone appreciates a sincere compliment.

With Thanksgiving coming up, get busy, my friends! Not just with making pie or stuffing, but also with creating those special, individualized verbal, or written gifts for family and friends.

People long to be loved and to know they matter, so who will you bless with your words of Affirmation, Appreciation, and Admiration?

(My special “Thank You” to Dr. Sandra Bender, author of Recreating Marriage with the Same Old Spouse, for these practical ways to build positive relationships.)For more helpful tips on building a healthy marriage, order Why Can’t He Be More Like Me?  I’d love to autograph your copy when you order HERE.  Tweetables:[Tweet "This holiday season, think of your thanks as little verbal gifts especially chosen for particular person. http://wp.me/p2JdPr-OA"][Tweet "People long to be loved & know they matter. Who will you bless with words of affirmation, appreciation, & admiration? http://wp.me/p2JdPr-OA"]Happy Thanksgiving,Poppy SmithInternational speaker, multi-published author, Bible teacher, and spiritual coachInspiring Women to Thrive! Permission to use this article is granted provided the following credit is fully included.Poppy Smith is funny, warm, and passionate about helping women grow spiritually and personally so they experience the love and power of Christ in life’s ups and downs. A former teaching leader with Bible Study Fellowship, Poppy has a Masters in Spiritual Formation and ministers extensively as a retreat and conference speaker both in the US and around the world. For more information about Poppy’s heart, her books and ministry, please visit her website at www.poppysmith.com.