Students should write thank you notes to practice gratitude.
Over the last few years, there has been overwhelming research that a positive mindset is an important factor in the health of an individual. A key component of this mindset is the demonstration of gratitude. Sharing expressions of gratitude, namely through letters, is a great way for students to lift the spirits of people around them and themselves
According to a 2018 study published in the Association of Psychological Science, senders of these letters often underestimate the positive effect they have on the receivers and overestimate the “awkwardness” that could arise.
Despite the study’s participants’ negative expectations, they were consistently met with the opposite reactions. Gratitude was met with gratitude.
Amit Kumar, a leading researcher in the study, said that the takeaway from their findings is that it is usually just the person’s self-consciousness preventing them from showing appreciation for people around them. He suggests that writing these letters of gratitude “when the mood strikes” is a great way to overcome this perceived awkwardness and make gratitude a positive habit.
Sharing notes of gratitude also helps strengthen relationships and foster comfort in emotional intimacy between people, according to an article by Harvard Health Publishing. Whether the relationship is romantic, platonic or professional, sharing gratitude brings people together.
Expressing gratitude in written notes is also beneficial to the sender. When times become rough, gratitude is the last activity someone considers. However, cognitive scientist Susan Peirce Thompson stated that gratitude is a more “sustainable [form] of happiness” that can be considered as a new “frame of mind.”
By adopting this frame of mind, people can expect to feel lessened symptoms of depression, improved physical health and strengthened social bonds. Gratitude strengthens a person mentally and physically. Just as Kumar previously suggested, the habit of gratitude has no downside once embraced.
People often find it easier to express thanks to someone they are already emotionally intimate with, such as a close friend or significant other. A quick thank you text for their support is a great way to bring a smile to their day.
To branch out further, consider a coworker, professor or classmate that has made a positive difference lately. For whoever it may be, saying “thank you” is always kind.
