Make Gratitude Actionable: 15 Ways To Show Appreciation For Others

In 2021, we're focusing on joy. After the year we've had, cultivating and celebrating small moments of happiness as they come has never felt more cathartic, life-affirming, and essential to lasting well-being. In the coming weeks, we're going to laugh, experience new things, and revamp stale aspects of daily life. Come back each day for a new "Resolution Joy" installment, where you'll find inspiration and expert-backed advice, free classes, and—dare we say?—fun activities.

When we strive to practice gratitude, it's often viewed from an internal lens. Whether it's through journaling or meditation, these feelings of appreciation have been shown to boost overall well-being1 and may even relieve stress2. While self-expressions of gratitude are essential, extending that gratitude to others can also go a long way. 

A study published in the American Journal of Public Health says helping others not only makes you feel good, but it may also reduce mortality by lowering stress3. 

Growing up, many people were taught to write thank-you letters after receiving birthday or holiday gifts. Sending a letter of appreciation doesn't have to be confined to such specific moments, though.

Think about the times you've received an unexpected piece of snail mail. You probably felt special and acknowledged, right? Well, allow someone else to experience that feeling, too. 

Start by spending a few minutes reflecting on people you feel especially grateful for—your mom, your best friend, your partner, or your mail carrier—whoever comes to mind. Then, spend a few more minutes reflecting on the ways in which they've provided you support or made a difference in your life. Finally, express those thoughts in the letter. 

You may be tempted to give someone a hug when you're feeling appreciative of them, or perhaps you buy them a gift to say thank you. While neither of these responses is wrong, they may not be the most impactful. Instead, learn someone's love language so you can express gratitude in a way that's meaningful to them.

As mentioned before, not everyone is a fan of physical touch, so know your audience. If the person is receptive to it, though, embracing in a bear hug can bring you both joy.

According to intimacy expert Julian Colker, the bear hug helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system, making someone feel less stressed.

"This type of hug is so satiating on a physical, human level," relationship and intimacy consultant Marla Mattenson previously told mbg.

Active listening is the process of creating space for another person to talk and fully engaging in what they have to say. "Rather than internally rehearsing what they might say next or drifting into judgment, the listener is completely attentive," licensed marriage and family therapist Tiana Leeds, M.A., LMFT, tells mbg.