Everyday Awe Part 3: Letter Writing
Welcome to the third post in my new series on Gratitude.
Here are the links in case you missed the first post or the second one. Let’s jump in to today’s post all about writing gratitude letters and making gratitude visits.
Part 3: Letter Writing
When it comes to deepening our gratitude practice, writing a letter of thanks and sharing it in person can be one of the most powerful rituals. Research in positive psychology shows that expressing gratitude directly to someone can significantly boost both our well-being and theirs.
The Science Behind Gratitude Letters and Visits
Studies led by Dr. Martin Seligman, a pioneer in positive psychology, reveal that writing a gratitude letter and delivering it in person can lead to a noticeable increase in happiness and a decrease in depressive symptoms. These benefits can last for up to a month! The process of reflecting on the kindness we’ve received, writing it down, and sharing it face-to-face can deepen emotional connections and strengthen relationships.
One of the key takeaways from these studies is that gratitude visits can create a “gratitude high.” The act of expressing heartfelt thanks in person often leads to immediate joy and emotional uplift, not just for the receiver but for the giver as well. It's a way of honoring the people who’ve made a difference in our lives, which can enhance our sense of connection and community.
How to Get Started
If you're looking to try this out, here’s a simple guide:
Choose someone to thank: Set a timer for 3 minutes and brainstorm people in your life who have shown you love or support in the last week, month, or year. Choose one person to focus on.
Brainstorm admiration: Jot down 2-3 qualities of that person you admire. Next to each quality, jot down a specific time they demonstrated that quality in the last week, month, year. Get specific and write down as many details about that experience as possible.
Write a heartfelt letter: Focus on specific things they’ve done for you and how it made you feel. Aim for about 300 words.
Deliver it in person: If possible, arrange a visit to read the letter to them directly. It might feel weird or silly at first, but the in-person connection amplifies the emotional impact.
This practice can be especially impactful during difficult times. Taking time to acknowledge and thank those who’ve supported us can foster emotional resilience and bring a renewed sense of hope and positivity.
I invite you to write a gratitude letter this week and, if possible, make plans to share it with that special person in your life.
Let’s spread gratitude and strengthen our bonds, one letter at a time.
