Expressing gratitude improves mental health and life satisfaction. In fact, focusing on what you have, rather than what you don’t, has the power to shift your entire mindset for a more positive and fulfilling life. Expressing gratitude goes far beyond just saying “thank you.” Here are some other ways you can express gratitude in your daily life. 

1. Write letters. Letter writing isn’t limited to thank you notes. Writing letters of gratitude fortifies your relationship with others and can actually lower cholesterol. Need inspiration? Check out our Thankful Thursdays series. 
2. Amplify someone’s love language. Does your partner really value quality time? Planning a special day of activities with them is the perfect way to express gratitude. If your friend or partner values acts of service, cooking them a meal might be more their speed. 
3. Express physical affection. We’re all suffering from a lack of physical proximity to those we love right now, but if you are sharing a living space with a friend or partner, give them a big hug to show them how much they mean to you and help you both get through these difficult times. 
4. Listen actively. Giving someone the space to be truly heard shows them how much you value their time and thoughts. It shows them you are grateful for their presence. 
5. Write notes. If you don’t have time to pen a whole letter, leaving sticky notes on the bathroom mirror or shooting a quick text of appreciation is another great way to express gratitude and make someone’s day. 
6. Leave a generous tip. Grateful for the delicious takeout food powering you through the workweek? If you have disposable income, a generous tip shows your gratitude and supports restaurant workers at a particularly difficult time. 
7. Be patient. Patience isn’t always easy, but taking the time to be patient with someone, even when you’re in a rush, shows them how much they mean to you. 
8. Give a co-worker a shoutout. Among all the things we’re grateful for, hardworking co-workers definitely make the list. Give a peer a shoutout during a meeting for their dedication or send them a note acknowledging all their efforts. 
9. Deliver a meal. Even if you can’t share a meal in person right now, bringing someone hot food or baked goods shows you’re thinking of them. 
10. Send a book. Did a certain book you read remind you of someone in your life? Mail them the book for some quarantine entertainment. 

There are many ways to express gratitude. Find some that you feel best represent and honor those you appreciate and experience the joy of gratitude.