Magic Words

Have you ever noticed how something as simple as one word can make or break your day? Even getting a customer service phone call at work can lighten my mood if the person on the other line is polite and cheerful. Imagine how many people you interact with each and everyday...do you leave that person knowing they are in a better mood because of you?

We are taught to say "Please" and "Thank You" as children, but somehow most adults forget these simple magic words. When you are at a store and need assistance, on the phone, texting, or even at the drive through window at McDonald's, do you remember to say "please" when you ask for more ketchup, or "thank you" when you get your order? What about when you're at the grocery store? Do you remember to thank your cashier and/or bagger? Two simple ways to brighten someone's day.

It is also an unfortunate condition of human nature to neglect those closest to us. It is remarkable how many time adults forget to say "please" when asking a friend or family member to do something for them. Please take out the garbage. Please put your dishes in the sink. Please pick up your clothes. Could you please bring me a glass of water? Worse yet is how often we forget to thank the ones we love for every day things. Thank you for remembering to do the dishes. Thank you for calling/texting today. Thank you for bringing me coffee. Thank you for cleaning your room. It's the little ways of showing respect and appreciation that make all the difference in the world to other people.

Start to pay attention to how many times a day you say "Please" and "Thank You" and hopefully you will find opportunities to say it more.

How often do you remember to say "Please" and "Thank You"?