Appreciation Replacements

With many offers and gifts being given, sometimes we say and do things that we don't mean, or may not realize how they impact others (imagine that!).  In order to ensure we show our appreciation or position with respect for ourselves and others, please consider these quick changes in language: 

1. Thank you replaces "Oh, you shouldn't have".  Thank you means thanks, and you shouldn't have sounds like a slight scolding (even though we mean it was nice that the person did it).
2. Thanks replaces "You didn't need to do that".  We need to do little in life, and hopefully do more of what we want.  People who wanted to get or give you something know they didn't have to, so just thank them for their effort instead of that awkward rejection of they didn't have to do something.
3. You are welcome replaces "No problem".  We don't want to think anything was a problem, especially at the holidays, so showing respect in response to a thank you, means they are welcome - no problem invited/included in the conversation at all!
4. You're welcome replaces "It was nothing".  What you did was something, so if someone thanks you, allow them to know their comment was, in fact, welcomed!  

By sharing quick responses that are kind and responsive, respectful and heartfelt, we can give and receive with positivity and appreciation!