How to Use the Power of the Word “Thank You”

Can I let you know a secret?

I have a tool that has helped me make deeper connections and create meaningful relationships throughout my life. We may have been given this tool as children, but it often gets lost in maturity. The least it might probably do is lead to positive interaction, and at best it might probably build bridges.

Did I mention it’s free and anyone can use it? Any guesses?

Here’s one other tip: This is one of the most significant phrases we will use in our day by day vocabulary. It’s easy, but so powerful.

Are you ready to hear what my favorite tool is? Thank you.

That’s true. Thank youTwo easy words.

Thank you!

It’s not a complicated formula. It’s often neglected in our busy and chaotic lives. I’m guilty of getting swept up in the whirlwind of calls, texts, emails, and meetings I have every day. In a world where so many things are pulling us in so many different directions, I try to remind myself that life is about the people we meet along the way, and all we will do is do our part to make life a little easier for everyone.

Expressing gratitude in the form of “thank you” accomplishes precisely this purpose.

Coming from Texas, I used to be at all times taught to say “yes ma’am,” “no sir,” “please,” and, you guessed it, “thank you.” As a child, I actually didn’t fully understand how vital it was to say it, but I definitely learned to say it when someone gave me an extra scoop of ice cream! I knew it was a polite thing to say, but as I matured, I spotted that saying thanks is much more powerful when you say it with true gratitude.

I feel that throughout my profession I have learned how vital gratitude and respect are in the workplace.

Sometimes we throw a pity party (some of us might even bring balloons and cake) when we feel unappreciated. We might expect others to notice. But guess what? People can’t read minds yet. If we’re expecting something, we also need to look deep inside ourselves and realize that we will not be showing appreciation or praise to others.

Think about it—how do you’re feeling when someone says thanks? How do you’re feeling when they do not? I’m going to go out of my way to say that you’re feeling higher when you’re feeling gratitude and appreciation. I actually know that is true because psychology (psychology major at SMU) says so.

Expressing gratitude builds strong relationships.

Promotes a positive attitude.

Increases motivation.

Improves self-esteem.

It gives a sense of achievement.

You get the idea. This list could go on so long as I can write. It’s easy – people want to feel appreciated – all of us do!

Are you reading this text? Thank you. No, Really, Thank you.

Let’s take a closer look.

Saying “thank you” isn’t just about politeness; it’s about connection. It’s about recognizing the humanity in every person you meet. It’s about building bridges in a world that feels divided.

Gratitude is a universal language that everybody understands. It speaks volumes. So let’s turn up the volume.

My dad (my hero) once told me, “Rogers, never underestimate the power of sincere gratitude.” And boy was he right. That mantra has been my guiding light throughout my journey in real estate, finance, and life. I’ve seen deals close not because of numbers, but because of relationships built on mutual respect and appreciation. I’ve seen team members go the extra mile, not for a paycheck, but because they feel valued and appreciated.

Thank yourself

Here’s the catch – it isn’t just about thanking others. Yes, that is true. Every now and then, you’ll be able to thank yourself for your efforts, resilience, and perseverance. This is a latest concept for me.

I’m writing this as someone latest to this concept. It’s definitely a work in progress for me. But to show how dedicated I’m, I’m writing these thoughts down and sharing them with you. Did I just pat myself on the back? Maybe.

When I became a dad to a girl (the best dad) it gave me so much. If we wish our future leaders to consider in themselves and take the time to stop and smell the roses, possibly we could too?

I know. It’s a weird thing to think about, and I’m still undecided what to think about it. But possibly it’s something like, “Thank you for getting through this difficult day,” or “Thank you for staying true to your values.” That kind of attitude is transformative.

So what’s the takeaway? If I haven’t hammered this home hard enough, make gratitude a day by day routine. It costs nothing, but it pays dividends in ways you’ll be able to’t even begin to measure. Live your life with integrity, whether you’re thanking the barista for your morning coffee, a colleague for their support, or yourself for showing up.

Let’s start a gratitude revolution. Let’s make thank yous as familiar as hello and goodbye. Let’s spread kindness and watch the world improve, one thanks at a time.

Thank you for reading. Thank you for being you. And thanks for making a difference.

Remain grateful, my friends.

Thank you.