It’s just one word. Saying thanks is a tiny gesture with big benefits.
Feeling grateful? Take your gratitude to the next level and thank someone. A co-worker, a family member, even a cashier, server, or barista. Then watch what happens.
Notice how you feel when you thank them.
Notice how they feel and respond. Do they smile? Do they pause whatever else they were doing? Did you just make them feel good?
Notice how you feel when they respond.
Most people will feel little mood boost. That boost in your mood comes from a release of dopamine and serotonin. Those are the chemicals stimulated by your brain reward system that make us feel good. Yes, gratitude has physical rewards within your body, in addition to the reward of more pleasant interactions with others. The Wharton School and other scientists have begun to uncover the neuroscience of gratitude. When you start saying thanks, your body will reward you.
Wharton recommends integrating gratitude as a part of company culture for a happier, healthier workplace. I recommend integrating gratitude as part of your every day life for more happiness and a better sense of well being. It’s as simple as one word: Thanks.
Try thanking someone today and see how it amplifies your happiness.