The two words “thank you” are short and simple, yet hold a great deal of power. The saying "thank you” is an acknowledgment of a good deed, an expression of acceptance, or a pronouncement of gratitude. In the usual chaos of a school day jam-packed with tests, assignments, and projects, it is easy to forget this simple saying. However, gratitude should never be an afterthought.

More than just a nice thing to say, “thank yous” are scientifically linked to improved quality of life and greater happiness. A study by Dr. Martin E.P. Seligman at the University of Pennsylvania found that after participants wrote gratitude letters to people they had never properly thanked, their happiness scores increased almost immediately, and the effects lasted about a month. With only one short period of reflection and gratitude, the impact was massive.

Harvard Medicine states that ingraining gratitude behaviors into daily life is proven to “increase positive emotions, deepen good experiences, improve health, deal with adversity, and allow for stronger relationships”. Just a few “thank yous” a day is a great start, especially to the people important in your life. Gratitude can help strengthen relationships and bring you closer to the people you love.

This month, as we move closer to Thanksgiving, remember to take a moment every day and give thanks. It can be short, it can be simple, as long as an expression of gratitude is made. The two words that we often take for granted, “thank you”, can make a real impact on someone around us.