Spreading Kindness And Appreciation

 

Source: today.com

“It is better to give than to receive.” An old cliche we often encounter in donation boxes, panhandlers, and even our friends. However, we would like to highlight another famous quotation saying, “give a man a fish and he will live for a day, but teach the man how to fish and he will live for the rest of his life.” We believe that kindness is a trend that never goes out of style. It is also vital that we realize that in paying forward and spreading kindness, it is not only shown in dole out or almsgiving. It is very helpful to society and mankind to take charge and be on the giving end.

“It feels good to do something nice for someone. It boosts your self-esteem, it makes you feel like a better person, and it can help you overcome any negative feelings you are experiencing at the moment,” says licensed clinical psychologist, Sarah Schewitz, PsyD.

Ways to say “Thank You!”

Kindness and appreciation are not only shown in the form of gifts or money. A thank you can also be shown by giving time to another person and sharing talents or information. Another gesture of gratefulness is by helping others in whatever way possible, no matter how big or small that gesture is.

Saying thank you in the form of gifts and surprises.

When picking gifts for the significant people in our lives such as family, relatives, and friends, we should take into consideration the things that these people value. It does not mean that if we like bags or clothes, these people want to receive the same gifts as well. Some people are happy with quality time over a good conversation and a cup of coffee. We must take into consideration the kind of gifts that actually make them happy and not just assume what they will like according to our standards.

On the other hand, American philosopher and psychologist William James said, “The deepest principle of human nature is the craving to be appreciated. When you say thank you, you’re meeting that basic human need.”

Source: thebalance.com

Paying it forward by sharing your talents.

If you know how to play the guitar, maybe you can give free classes. Maybe you’re good at dancing or maybe you can organize a fundraising activity and give the proceeds to help send children to school. We are all created with unique characteristics that can make this world a better place.

Moreover, there are thank you therapy resources available online such as counseling and online therapy that can provide information and guidance regarding activities on how to show deep appreciation to others. May it be showing appreciation to the neighbor who lends a helping hand or a co-worker that helps you to get through a rough day. Participating in volunteer work can also be helpful. You can also contribute and allocate a portion of your income in stipends or give it to charitable institutions to aid their causes.

Source: appliedalliance.wordpress.com

It means a lot..so try it today

It has been said that life is a cycle of give and take, withdraw and deposit or we reap what we sow. The more acts of kindness we do for other people doesn’t mean that we expect them to return or reciprocate it. “Research suggests that individuals who are grateful in their daily lives actually report fewer stress-related health symptoms, including headaches, gastrointestinal (stomach) issues, chest pain, muscle aches, and appetite problems,” says Sheela Raja, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist.

Sometimes, the law of karma has its own way of dealing with things. If you give bread, do not expect bread in return from that person. Sometimes, the gift comes back to you in a different form. It could be your wish being granted or things that are not tangible and visible to the eye. Therefore, never stop paying it forward. You’ll never know that the unkind person you touched today might pass the kindness on.

 

 

 

Easy Ways To Show Gratitude To Our Soldiers

In the past few years, I always try to be updated in every news that concerns my community and my country. It is my way to be a responsible citizen. However, these past few months have been really difficult, not only in the local community but also worldwide. The increasing number of news relating to terrorist attacks, the war on drugs, homeless refugees is really depressing to watch on a daily basis. That’s why it is hard for me to turn on the TV and watch the chaos going on all over the world.

If not for our brave soldiers, I wouldn’t be enjoying my delicious cup of white mocha in my favorite coffee shop right now. They deserve all the acknowledgment and appreciation for sacrificing their own lives to protect us. We all know that there will always be an outbreak of violence. But, having that assurance that they would always be there to protect us makes it easier to live by every single day. Therefore, if you know anyone who is in the military, it won’t hurt to give at least a small token of appreciation for all their sacrifices.

“As I reflected on my own experience, I could see both sides. When I was on active duty, when people noticed I was in uniform, a common experience was people walking up and saying “thank you for your service.” To me, it felt great to receive the acknowledgment and it would make me feel proud of what I do. I feel honored to wear the uniform; being acknowledged for doing so is an added bonus.” – Michael B. Brennan, PsyD. 

Source: unknownsoldiersblog.com

Here are some few tips that can help you to have an idea on how you can show your appreciation to our brave soldiers:

Smile and Acknowledge Their Deeds

You won’t definitely break a sweat by offering a sweet smile to your friend soldier. Smiling is the easiest way to show your gratitude for all the things that they are doing to protect the nation. Add up a simple acknowledgment and for sure, you can make their day brighter. Smiling and acknowledging their deeds would cost you zero penny. There’s really nothing left to lose.

Source: m.goarmy.com

Offer Them a Meal

Being a soldier is really tough. You do not know when would be the next ration of food will come, nor the next instance when you can spend time with your family. If you will have the opportunity to cook a meal for a soldier, don’t let it pass. I assure you that it would mean so much to them. A delicious meal nurtures the soul. 

On the other hand,  licensed clinical psychologist Sarah Schewitz says, “It feels good to do something nice for someone. It boosts your self-esteem, it makes you feel like a better person, and it can help you overcome any negative feelings you are experiencing in the moment.”

Source: telegraph.co.uk

Give Them a Simple Thank You Letter

The American philosopher and psychologist William James said, “The deepest principle of human nature is the craving to be appreciated. When you say thank you, you’re meeting that basic human need.”

Nothing could go wrong with a simple letter. It is very simple, yet heartwarming. A thank you letter is also cheap and very easy to do. It doesn’t take a lot of time to write one. All you have to do is to write a letter from your heart. I’m pretty sure that a sincere thank you letter would make any soldier feel special. It is a small token you can give in return for their hard work.