Do Good to Feel Good: Thank Someone Who Made a Difference

Science–and common sense–tells us that doing something good for others is good for us: it raises our endorphins, boosts our self-esteem, gives us an emotional lift. Doing good is good for others and for healing ourselves.

So, in this feature, I will occasionally suggest a small action each of us can take to make the world a better place. I will if you will!

Say Thanks to Someone Who Made a Difference

Is there someone in your past or present life–perhaps a teacher, a caregiver, a mentor–who made a real difference to you, personally or professionally, and about whom you’ve sometimes thought: I should tell ______ what a difference s/he made?

Now’s your chance! I recommend writing a letter, card, or email (or go public with a blog or even a Facebook post!), so the recipient can hang on to your thanks and revisit the good feeling it will no doubt elicit. But you know your recipient best, and a call or other intentional communication will also surely be much appreciated.

Feel free to post your intentions in a comment below, if you are so inclined.

Do good to feel good!