The Impact of Thank You Notes

Recipients of thank you notes are often more touched by the notes than senders anticipate. Senders frequently underestimate the positive impact of their gratitude expressions, assuming recipients would feel less happy, surprised, and more awkward than they actually do. Senders rate their ability to express gratitude lower than recipients perceive it, indicating a discrepancy in perception. This study implies that expressing thanks, even if challenging, is meaningful and appreciated by others. It is essential not to let self-consciousness hinder expressing gratitude, as people generally value and appreciate being appreciated, despite any perceived awkwardness or self-consciousness a sender may feel while writing the thank you note.