The magnetism of thank you

It doesn’t take much of an in-depth research session to assert that people complain. 

Go on any site that offers reviews of restaurants, hotels, rental car agencies, clothing stores, or even scan the comments section of a news article or editorial. 

Chalk it up to human nature; give credit to the anonymity of the Internet.

Ultimately, regardless of cause, in our society, the vitriolic nature of complaints tends to manifest itself physically. 

But, here is the catch, part of understanding success, part of what can allow students to move ahead, to break glass ceilings placed above them, is to understand that the cultivation of positive relationships paves the path to progress.

So here is the opportunity for you to distinguish yourself – to distinguish yourself in the realm of networking, relationship building, and honestly, determining how memorable you are in the eyes of those around you. 

Say thank you.

Always.

Say thank you to the people who do something for you, to those who inspire you, to those who offer the simplest or most complex favors.   

Because the reality is that even those who are fantastic, terrific, and dynamic in our lives don’t hear the words “thank you” nearly as much as you might imagine. 

I issued a challenge yesterday about waking up early in the morning to bring energy to your life. 

And today I am issuing a second challenge – the challenge to say thank you – vocally, digitally, or even through a hand-written note – to someone in your life. 

Say thank you to your friends. They need to hear it.

Say thank you to your professors – not mid-course, not even before the final exam, but after the final class, after the grade is posted. Let it come from a genuine place – send an email, let them know that you appreciated the knowledge they offered you.

And watch the effect this has when you are asking for a recommendation letter when you transfer or graduate.

Most importantly, more than anything, say thank you to your professional mentors – anytime you hear someone speak at a class, conference, or event, go up to them and say thank you – get their business card, email them detailing how you took the advice that he or she offered.

Because there is a reality – gratitude is powerful.

Your gratitude can make you magnetic to others.

Say thank you without expecting anything in return – it can be surprising how gratefulness and genuineness can change how you view certain situations around you. 

And you might be surprised how that little display of gratitude can change the way that others view you.