Gratitude is one of the most powerful forms of impact. People are valued by those who are grateful for them. Think about it, I bet that you feel significantly valued by those who have genuinely told you they were grateful for something you did. In fact, those people who encouraged you are probably people you value in your life.

So, why not return the favor and value people who will in turn value you? The more you acknowledge the people in your life who have impacted you, the more people will be impacted by you. This is so simple to do, but most never take the time to do it. And this missed opportunity leaves others left deserving and certainly leaves your important words unsaid. Unexpressed Gratitude will one day be lost forever. William Arthur Ward said, “God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today. Have you used one to say ‘thank you?'”

I am challenging you to write some Gratitude Cards for those who have impacted your life. This could be a teacher, family member, coach, boss, friend, or even a light acquaintance. I have recently started doing this using these awesome Gratitude Cards I found on Amazon. I would highly encourage you to get these and use them to impact the people who have impacted you.

Here are some things to think about when you write your Gratitude Cards…

1. Be Very Specific

Tell the person exactly what they’ve done to impact you. Be specific about the traits, examples, or actions that you want to point out. Don’t say things like, “You really impacted me.” or “You are a sweet person.” Say something more like this, “You really impacted me by…(fill in the blank). or “You are a sweet person because (fill in the blank). Whatever you do tell them WHY you are grateful.

2. Be Very Inclusive

Don’t just write cards for those who make a massive difference, also include those who made even a slight difference. Too many times we are thinking about the big things people have done, but don’t forget the little things people have done. In fact, it’s the little things people have done that sometimes make the biggest difference. Be very open with who will get these cards from you, don’t hold back.

3. Be Very Committed

Don’t just do this once and forget about it. Try to weave this practice into your life ongoing. Always be looking for opportunities to express gratitude. Make a gratitude list that is ongoing so you can always have someone to thank. Do whatever it takes to show people they matter. Be committed for the long haul and challenge yourself to create a lifestyle of gratitude.

Martin Luther said, “You are not only responsible for what you say, but also for what you do not say.”

Get the Gratitude Cards I use here…