(Photo by Italian voice)

Of course you thank your clients after they’ve paid for your product or services. That’s business manners 101. But what other opportunities do you have to thank people in your business dealings?

Do you thank your clients months later (and not simply to drum up more business or referrals)?

Do you thank prospective clients for contacting you at the first “touch”?

Do you thank your employees for showing up, and trying, even if they don’t succeed initially?

Do you thank you banker and accountant for be trusted advisers?

Do you thank the phone company for providing you a reliable dial tone (even though you pay for the service)?

There are many religious traditions where you thank your god (or “the universe”) for providing what you need to live (and even, for providing challenges in your life). Being appreciative means simply that you don’t take things/people for granted, and realize that everyone has a choice who to associate with. The fact that people want to connect with you is a reason for thanks, no matter how obvious or simple this sounds.

So, consider also:

• Thanking people for not choosing to work with you (but still for reaching out).
• Thanking people who make you work harder (you have a chance to learn more about yourself and miscommunications).
• Thanking your competitors for making you stay focused.
• Thanking your detractors for caring enough about you to express their displeasure.
• Thanking your family for supporting you (even though “they’re family”).
• Thanking yourself for having the courage/strength/desire to continue to follow your passion.

The good life comes from appreciating the regular details, not the rare “wows”.

Thank you for reading my article.