“Thank you” is defined as an expression of gratitude used to show appreciation for something. When someone does you a favor and you want to express your gratitude for what they have done…that’s an example of a time when you would say, “Thank you!”

But, it is more than that…it is a sign of respect to the person who has helped you or given you something. It is an indication you do not take them for granted, along with an acknowledgement that they matter. That is why saying “Thank you!” matters.

Being thankful is shown to make a person more positive and more resilient along with improving one’s relationships. People who regularly take time to notice and acknowledge the things they are thankful for experience more positive emotions, sleep better, and express more compassion and kindness toward others.

Gratitude is important in life; it is a thankful appreciation for what an individual receives, whether tangible or intangible. It is also the simplest, most powerful way to acknowledge another person's value and humanity. With gratitude, people acknowledge the goodness in their lives and more positive emotions are felt.

Researchers have also noted a type of spill-over effect…that is, gratitude begets gratitude. When someone receives a heartfelt “thank you” in return for a gift, help and/or advice, caring words, assistance, etc., it increases the likelihood that they will provide such support again to others going forward.

Saying “Thank you!” Is a very simple phrase, but it sends a powerful message. It is unassuming, humble and shows your gratitude. When you receive a compliment, say something like, "Thank you, I appreciate your kind words." Don't try to one-up a compliment.

“Thank You!” can be an incredibly powerful pair of words, especially if the person you are thanking really needs to hear them, or isn’t expecting them. Below are some quotes about gratitude and thankfulness:

“Silent gratitude isn’t much to anyone.” — Gertrude Stein

“Showing gratitude is one of the simplest yet most powerful things humans can do for each other.” — Randy Pausch

“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.”— William Arthur Ward

“Saying thanks costs nothing but gives everything.” — Unknown

“Appreciation can change a day, even change a life. Your willingness to put it into words is all that is necessary.” — Margaret Cousins

“You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

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What does the Bible say about thankfulness and gratitude?

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24 NLT

Let us come into His presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to Him with songs of praise! Psalm 95:2 ESV

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. Psalm 103:2-5 ESV

For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God. So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. 2 Corinthians 4:15-16 ESV

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 ESV

Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His steadfast love endures forever! Psalm 107:1 ESV

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV

The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise Him. Psalm 28:7 NIV

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