I love this phrase. It plays into the idea of what you focus on grows. One of the hallmarks of burnout is a lack of a sense of value and accomplishment. A simple and sincere thanks helps the receiver feel seen and valued. Creating a culture of appreciation requires recognition of another’s contribution and a willingness to express this acknowledgement. If you believe what goes around comes around, then you too will be a recipient of thanks and experience the sense of value others may have as a result of your efforts. You can use ‘Thank You’ to Overcome Burnout.
Thanks are part of the daily etiquette that provides social grease so that our relationships move forward more smoothly. Yet, so often it is forgotten. Marshall Goldsmith, in What Got You Here Won’t Get You There, noted “The best thing about saying ‘Thank you’ is that it creates closure in any potentially explosive discussion.”* Less volatility and arguing creates an environment in which you can feel safer, act more authentically and experience less depersonalization, hallmark 2 of burnout.
Here are 2 activities you can do to experience the benefits of ‘Thank You.’
Commit to saying “thank you” at least 4 times a day. “Thanks” and “I appreciate …” are acceptable alternatives. If you don’t have a habit of saying thank you, it may feel like you’re searching for what to express thanks for. You can say thank you when someone does their ‘job’, the cashier, a colleague or even your family member.
Alternatively, here’s a 4 step Thank you exercise
- Who are the people in your life that have contributed to your success? Make a list of at least 10 people who have had a positive influence on you and helped you move forward in life.
- Now that you have primed the mental pump, who is currently contributing to your success? Think about people at work and beyond.
- Write a thank you note to the people you have identified. You don’t have to write to them all at once, you can do this over a period of time. Choose 1 now, and write a note; don’t worry about what kind of paper.
- Deliver your thank you in person if possible. This can be done over the phone or literally when you are with the person.
Writing and delivering your thank you note is a powerful happiness booster. Studies at the University of Pennsylvania, written about by Martin Seligman, found that the positive effects last longer for the writer than for the recipient of the note.
For more ways to improve your relationships, recover from burnout and live with more joy, contact me.
Revitalize Your Life,
Dina, Well-Being Coach
203.744.YOU3 (9683)
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*Goldsmith, Marshall, What Got You Here Won’t Get You There, Hyperion, New York, 2007, p. 157
