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You’re More Thoughtful Than You Might Realize
Bottom Line: I mean...maybe? You could be that person I suppose. But given that you seek my content, the headline to this story likely holds true. What’s this about? Most days most of us are doing at least something that’s particularly thoughtful of others. As part of a recent survey conducted by card company American Greetings, we really are thoughtful people. How often do you think you do something thoughtful for others? If you’re the average person... six out of every seven days you’re doing something that’s thoughtful and considerate of others. In fact, you’re likely so thoughtful, that it’s just ingrained into who you are which is why it may not feel like you’re as considerate as you likely are. Unsurprisingly, the majority of gestures are seemingly small. But the researchers found that the impact is often bigger than we may realize. Small gestures that can make a meaningful difference include...
- An unexpected compliment or a sincere thank you
- Simply acknowledging someone’s birthday
- Not looking at a phone or other distraction while having a conversation
Sounds simple but it also makes sense, doesn’t it? It’s also quite the commentary on our society and probably our own behavior that such simple gestures have become uncommon enough that they’re now unexpected enough to have a meaningful impact. But that’s also the bonus when we are thoughtful. It goes that much further. And to that end, when we really do make a meaningful effort to do something especially nice above and beyond the simple gestures – it often has such a profound impact on others they’re more likely to be more thoughtful with those around them as well.