Don’t Underestimate the Power of a “Thank You” Note

Don’t underestimate the power of a simple “Thank You” note.

This morning, as I was writing a “thank you” note to one of my speaking clients, I was reminded of this.

It has been nearly 15 years since I was introduced to the concept of “thank you” notes.

I still remember writing the very first batch.

I was at the dinner table with a pile of blank thank you cards in front of me and a list of people to thank to the right.

At the time, it felt tedious to express my gratitude in writing to those who I’d be seeing the following day.

I didn’t understand the value of expressing my gratitude to those who chose to attend my birthday party.

7 years later, I was reminded of the concept again.

As I made my way through the Entrepreneurship Lab, a mentor of mine asked, “Have you written your thank yous yet?”

“Not yet,” I responded.

The thoughts of having to go through a tedious process reappeared, front and center.

Now, I view the process differently.

I have learned the value of an intentionally written “thank you” note.

The kind gesture has allowed me to challenge my own assumptions about what I thought others felt. It has taught me that most people don’t know how I felt about what they’ve done and the impact they have had in my life.

The gesture has allowed me to see the value people put on such things. I’ve witnessed some tape the notes onto the refrigerator next to their other meaningful moments. Recognizing their good deeds helped create additional meaning in their lives.

Don’t underestimate the power of a simple “Thank You” note.