Thanks a Million

Expressing thanks is something we probably all value, but don't always know how to implement. With over 35 years in the gifting business, we have some ideas on the subject. Here's a primer on becoming a better thank-er. (No need to thank us for it!)

• Gratitude is a renewable resource. The more you give thanks to people around you, the more grateful you feel, and in turn, the more people want to do kind and helpful things. Challenge yourself to thank at least three people in the next hour and see what happens.
• Notice the little things. Going hand-in-hand with the previous challenge, begin noticing the small ways in which the people around you excel. You'll be amazed at what you see.
• Make it personal and sincere. An under-the-breath "thanks" doesn't count for much, so make it a point to be both personal and sincere. In person, make eye contact and thank the person specifically for what you appreciate. Otherwise, pick up the phone and call or send a thoughtful text or email.
• Think about the thankless jobs. From the person who cleans the office after hours to the school bus driver, there are many people who get overlooked for a job well done. It's not intentional, of course, but out of sight often means out of mind. Take some time to thank one of them.
• Report to a supervisor. Were you wowed by someone in a professional setting? In addition to expressing your thanks, contact their manager to let them know.
• Keep thank you notes on hand. Jimmy Fallon takes time every week to jot down some thank you notes and drop them in the mail, and so should you. Having the cards on hand means you can write that note as soon as you think of it.
• Reward the extra mile. When someone has gone above and beyond on your behalf, it's always a good idea to say thanks with a gift. Of course, our suggestion is always a surprise delivery of freshly baked cookies and brownies with an enclosed gift message. It's a thank you gift idea that feels generous without being awkwardly over-the-top.
• It's never too late. There is no expiration date on thank you's, so if you're plagued with regret for failing to acknowledge something in the past, do something about it today.

And just in case you're looking for some more gift suggestions, here are some of our favorites: If you liked this advice, pass it on! And if you have your own tips for expressing thanks, share them in the comments. Thank you.