
What is the difference between gratitude and thank you/thankfulness?
The terms are used interchangeably, but you can think of thankfulness as something we do in a moment. I verbally thank the people at my local coffee shop when I pay for my latte and offer a tip for their service. I thank someone when they hold a door open for me or wave when they let me through a traffic intersection. This is not the same as gratitude. Gratitude has a meaning that is often greater or deeper.
Gratitude is an attitude of appreciation or thankfulness. It is a way of recognizing what is positive or good in our lives. Gratitude is also a more profound way to express a thank you. For example, gratitude can be expressed to a neighbor who brought you food when you were sick, took care of your pets while you went away, or cleared snow off your walkway for you. My mother may encourage me to write a book, but my gratitude for her is when she proofreads, provides feedback, corrects my grammar, and shares how proud she is of me with her friends. I am grateful to her for being a part of the growth I experienced while writing and for her specific assistance.
Gratitude is a life-changing practice that can impact your mental, emotional, and physical health. I encourage you to practice gratitude. For more tips, see the resources below and my upcoming blog, "How to Practice Gratitude."
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