Here in this month of thanks, we’re starting to think about ways to show gratitude. There are plenty of people to thank and plenty of ways to do so without getting too cheesy.
So, if you’re looking for some manly ways to show gratitude or just something not too corny, we have a few ideas you might like to consider.
10 Manly Ways to Show Gratitude
You don’t need to make a big deal to tell others you appreciate them, and doing so has lots of benefits. Simple things are all you need and here are some simple, and manly ways to show gratitude.
Simple Thanks
A simple thanks goes a long way, even if you’re feeling impatient with a person. The mere act of habitually saying “thank you” not only makes others feel good, but it lightens your own mood as well. No need to get all mushy. Just say what you need to say. Don’t underestimate the simple and direct ways of saying thanks.
Simple Notes
A small note of appreciation is a nice surprise for anyone. You can write an out-of-the-blue thank you note to your spouse. You can shoot an email to your boss thanking him or her for taking the time to speak with you the other day. Even a text to a friend thanking them for the time they took for you last week is a nice moment to show gratitude.
Buy Coffee
It’s fair to say most first responders have coffee running through their veins. Did your partner cover for you or help you in a tough spot? Buy that guy a coffee. Did your cousin just help you move that couch? Buy her a coffee. Did your neighbor get up early to feed your pets while you were away? Buy them a box of K-cups. Easiest thank you gift ever.
Buy Lunch
Sometimes people go a little further and you want to show gratitude a little more. But you’re not into talking about it, so keep it practical by buying lunch. Whether it’s take out, dine in, or even making it at home, everyone likes to eat. Plus, folks enjoy when someone takes the time to feed them.
Share a Drink
Nothing says friendship like sharing a drink together. Offer to buy your buddy a beer or have them over for a drink at your place. Even treating someone to one drink is a nice way to show gratitude. If whoever you’re thanking is alcohol free, go for the coffee or lunch.
Share a Laugh
Just sharing some laughs can be enough for a person to appreciate. Be around to spend the time to joke and have fun. Share some smiles or a funny video. You’re showing that you like that person’s company and appreciate them as a friend.
Lend a Dollar
If you want to show gratitude to the wait staff, you tip well. Your friends, family, and coworkers may not be wait staff, but you can always give gas money for a ride, or even a few dollars more for a coffee or lunch run. It’s a simple way to show gratitude.
Lend a Hand
Is someone always there for you when you need a friend? Is someone there to give you rides or help you work on a house project? Lend a hand in return to show gratitude by offering to help them with their projects, move, or car troubles. Offering your time and talent is a great (and manly) way to show gratitude.
Listen
It seems too easy, but many people don’t feel heard in this loud, busy life. Be a presence to someone in need that you appreciate by merely listening to concerns, stories, or even their jokes. Make that person feel heard. They’ll feel appreciated too.
Listen More
This one bears repeating, but in depth. It’s one thing to stick around and listen to a story or joke, but it’s another thing to take a larger chunk of time out of your day to let that person dump. If someone you appreciate or care about is going through a rough patch—or a rough life—be there to listen deeply and see if there’s anything else you can do to help. Even if there’s nothing else, it’s a big show of support to be present and just listen. Do this for those you appreciate and those who need it. You never know how much your presence is needed.
Appreciation is Key
When it comes to growing healthy relationships, appreciation is key. An attitude of gratitude builds trust and friendship. We don’t want to sound too cheesy, but it’s true. When those around you feel appreciated and heard, they’re more likely to trust you and listen to you too. Appreciate who and what you have, and surround yourself with those who show gratitude in return. Most of all, learn to appreciate the value in you. We do—in a manly, not-too-cheesy type of way of course.