25 Ways to Show Gratitude
Practicing gratitude is not only a great habit for maintaining personal happiness, but it also has a powerful effect on others. Showing someone appreciation can be done in both grand and small gestures, but oftentimes it's the little things that go the furthest. A simple "thank you" acknowledges that you don't take someone or something for granted. For more ways to show gratitude, see 25 examples ahead!
![Put gifts to use.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/ALFYO5C0zICpSN8oUgabgRyBGu8=/fit-in/792x556/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/02e4491e25136709_StockSnap_P36YO6TM0I.jpg)
Put gifts to use.
The best way to say thanks is to show it off. Even if that top isn't quite your style or you already have 20 mugs in your kitchen, find some use for the present so that he or she knows you're appreciative.
![Give your full attention.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/hJasfxk03i8D_N1Q3Qzk3io62jM=/fit-in/792x546/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/4ce813ca25e880b9_StockSnap_ZJN68DDLOW.jpg)
Give your full attention.
Being present for someone is not only the respectful thing to do, but it also shows that you're there for them. Put the phone down and open your ears to prove that you care.
![Return a favor.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/ecRa0gL-UUZuUXm0S0pXd3E4kf8=/fit-in/792x525/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/26131550cf329b4a_tommy-pequinot-329425.jpg)
Return a favor.
If someone offers to give you a ride to the airport, do the same for them when they're in need of a lift. Doing something for them in return is courteous and an easy way to say thank you.
![Find a way you can get involved in your community.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/3oyPsw2ydpWMAmQULonsr21ZAbo=/fit-in/792x529/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/f3a0c761b9ab3bf7_stefan-stefancik-257625.jpg)
Find a way you can get involved in your community.
Offer to do pro bono work or help organize a neighborhood event. Lend a hand to the community that's given so much to you.
![Treat a coworker to coffee.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/a1VWkS8fyHmokOOmBN_XH_NNdpw=/fit-in/792x528/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/7a278026e38bc3b7_PS17_Q3_Brand_Day3_Scene01_716.jpg)
Treat a coworker to coffee.
If a coworker has been an especially crucial member of a work project, take them out for coffee for being such an awesome teammate. They'll appreciate the small gesture and it'll only encourage them to stay motivated.
![Run an errand for somebody.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/HqLgtGqjNrMuWT59zvxhSwEG6sU=/fit-in/792x525/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/97e931e82f52e340_olu-eletu-10897.jpg)
Run an errand for somebody.
Ask a good friend who's drowning in responsibilities if there's anything you can do to help, even if it's just taking their dog out for a walk.
![Tell someone in person how much they mean to you.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/SRTSNuw-Nu9gb6tgp-PSAr5JrpI=/fit-in/792x528/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/08071ebeff004707_christin-hume-316554.jpg)
Tell someone in person how much they mean to you.
Actions often speak louder than words, but it's also nice to hear how someone feels in person. Sit down for a face-to-face conversation and explain what specifically he or she has done for you that you so appreciate.
![Leave a nice review.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/Fh2k0e2lFBxME7NwbdvkH0psVYM=/fit-in/792x527/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/5a9ccd70e8909c15_StockSnap_B6GYMTH73U.jpg)
Leave a nice review.
If a salesperson truly went above and beyond for you, for example, make sure their manager hears of their exceptional service. A raving review can benefit him or her even more than a tip can.
![Keep a gratitude journal.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/dBMZ4gQhTZfSFWESriaelyAFSLo=/fit-in/792x528/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/ee9c93b053466e20_PS17_SP_Broll_241.jpg)
Keep a gratitude journal.
Expressing appreciation doesn't always have to be done person to person. Listing all your blessings on paper not only forces you to practice gratitude, but it's also a great reference to look back on in times of struggle.
![Host a small get-together of friends you want to thank.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/6Eau53T6CdcxE0xb7iaqAkd7Oec=/fit-in/792x528/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/84ee821a20ef3c0c_PS17_Q3_Brand_Day02_Scene02_188_R1.jpg)
Host a small get-together of friends you want to thank.
Throw a mini "Thanksgiving" for close friends who've always been there for you. A simple wine night to say thanks would be enough to acknowledge how great they've been.
![Take care of yourself.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/Qc9c0QBjZfgYXSN6O8Lb2BwgYy0=/fit-in/792x528/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/963/n/1922441/be9a602ff99fc434_PS17_0001_GetFit_CleanEating_Smoothie_0704.jpg)
Take care of yourself.
The best way to show yourself some appreciation is to treat yourself well on all levels. Don't neglect your physical or mental health — exercise, take a day off, or whatever else your body needs to be in the best shape.
![Try not to complain.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/-ktfLiv7vD8qKm6qt57R6QLNONo=/fit-in/792x528/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/f721a07b208c4644_brooke-cagle-336464.jpg)
Try not to complain.
It's easy to vent to friends or coworkers about every little thing that goes wrong in your day, but sometimes, keeping your mouth shut is the best way to be grateful. It shows that you know that things could be worse and that you don't take your current situation for granted.
![Post a shout-out on social media.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/IofvRJM-8f38kI0tbsl0j4AyfFA=/fit-in/792x528/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/42f63f298daaecc0_PS17_SP_Broll_754.jpg)
Post a shout-out on social media.
In the age of oversharing, your first instinct may be to keep off from social media. But posting a kind status thanking someone for being extra awesome or tagging them in an Instagram photo of you two with a sweet caption would be appreciated. He or she may or may not be mortified, but it's a nice gesture nonetheless.
![Hand write a thank-you card.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/PCcoNWbEFJibk1dOjZa0boxpukg=/fit-in/792x594/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/13f03f6b5939a1fc_aaron-burden-211846.jpg)
Hand write a thank-you card.
Skip the texts and the emails and hand write your thank-you instead. It shows that you thought it was important enough to go the extra step.
![Return items you borrow.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/GwlbEAcAD-mSjWtc2UJG6PWNzyw=/fit-in/792x518/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/e1c56d70bbb4a97a_annie-spratt-61560.jpg)
Return items you borrow.
There's nothing ruder than holding onto things you've asked to borrow. The person was nice enough to lend you something, so be courteous and return it promptly after use.
![Do something nice without expecting anything in return.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/F7E1P856qRMVGe0zz_rDUkJbaoE=/fit-in/792x516/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/055d6e5793e8a699_PS17_Q3_Brand_Day01_Scene05_1602.jpg)
Do something nice without expecting anything in return.
Offer to babysit your friends' kids for the night so that they're able to enjoy a nice dinner out alone. Do it simply because you want to, not because you want something in exchange.
![Volunteer.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/UnsyGGZ41skv8SllrBFpDyqFtc4=/fit-in/792x528/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/fd5ca70ec14a21f9_benjamin-combs-27617.jpg)
Volunteer.
Another great way to say thanks is to give back. Even if it only takes an hour out of your day, your time and effort will be much appreciated.
![Leave a note with your tip.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/0XvHX4pO3FZ_0maY4qBabZds_es=/fit-in/792x528/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/eb67c1a2db96a20c_StockSnap_ODTWJA91CN.jpg)
Leave a note with your tip.
A hefty tip is a good reflection of your waiter's service, but leaving kind words with it takes your thank you a step further. Something as simple as a "Thanks!" with a smiley face can go a long way.
![Clean up after yourself.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/cPWOQOer0jyRRRe9sN11kxgQJms=/fit-in/792x528/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/559baae21bae7fbe_StockSnap_TOX1SXGFFR.jpg)
Clean up after yourself.
Leaving trash or a mess behind sends a message that you don't care. If someone has you over for dinner, offer to help out with dishes. Even wiping down the drink station after you've used it is a simple way to show employees appreciation.
![Make a friend their favorite meal.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/at4qZxMJvsAWYT1ctTytoVpmRHo=/fit-in/792x528/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/f7a02e6925df6797_andrik-langfield-petrides-289331.jpg)
Make a friend their favorite meal.
Show your friend how much you love them by inviting them over for dinner. If you really can't cook, order in their favorites to at least show some thought.
![Send a small, thoughtful gift.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/r6Tpao6uuz4QIPXL2QFxVpbRWFc=/fit-in/792x594/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/ae6f8d4e699d8bd4_StockSnap_RKZSLFKTIW.jpg)
Send a small, thoughtful gift.
Make sure it's something that has a special connection to him or her. If they always give you a ride, give them a gas card or surprise them with their favorite flowers just for being a great friend.
![Smile.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/RUEIHFteFO92QzvXUJ_Y3kYcOtw=/fit-in/792x528/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/12d7e228b229b436_katy-belcher-348041.jpg)
Smile.
Don't underestimate the power of a smile, especially when it comes to strangers. Good vibes are contagious and actively spreading that positive energy says much more than keeping to yourself and being moody.
![Donate gently worn clothing.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/fiUVX3_QWybOztHAE0tMijIvNnA=/fit-in/792x594/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/137b9e0274bd8908_shanna-camilleri-190745.jpg)
Donate gently worn clothing.
Be grateful that you're able to have clothes on your back and donate items you no longer wear to those who may need it.
![Give up your time.](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/pCGJ08H_2-6YxL3iRS2FV58fXus=/fit-in/792x528/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/b603e38218e36ead_joshua-sazon-373580.jpg)
Give up your time.
There's no better gift than time. Offer up your entire day for a loved one or a friend who often makes sacrifices for you.
![Say "thank you."](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/sEbS31Sg1gvGz2L-xgz9XNkDRRw=/fit-in/792x529/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2017/09/26/953/n/1922441/3c42c5b1ff7d0fbf_courtney-hedger-336844.jpg)
Say "thank you."
This is an obvious one, but a friendly reminder never hurts! Always express gratitude for even the smallest of acts.