Thank You Fridays

November 8th, 2013 by Kelly Kienzle

Don’t you wish that you could feel just a little calmer?  What is that elusive “thing” that would help you feel more engaged and at peace?  How do you put just a little more joy in your work life?

Try “Thank You Fridays.”  “Thank you Fridays” is a 3-step weekly practice to notice what went well that week and express appreciation to those who helped make it happen.  It’s incredibly simple, yet quite powerful.  Here’s how it works:

1. Think of three good things that happened this week.  They can be things that made you feel good, surprised you, or had a successful conclusion.  (If you need ideas, glance at your calendar, your email or around your desk. What good things do you see there?)

2. Think about who helped make each good thing happen.  Who was involved either materially or as inspiration?  Write their name next to each good thing.  Here’s my list for this week…

3.   Write a 2-sentence email to each person.  The first sentence simply says thank you for their involvement in the event.  The second sentence states why it is important to you.

That’s it.  Nothing more.  It’s easy, it’s quick and it makes 3 people in your life feel absolutely fantastic as they head into their weekends.  And how do you think it will make you feel?

Try it to find out.  It takes about 5 minutes.   I wish you all a very happy “Thank You Friday”.

“As long as we sing, the pain of the world cannot claim our lives.”

– Mark Nepo