Expressing thanks is a powerful tool for inspiration and motivation. It tells people that we care about them and the difference they’re making. In my June 19 post I gave five tips on how to say an impactful “thank you” using the catchy acronym SAIL (Specific Event, Action Taken, Impact, Link to Higher Goal). I received excellent comments from readers, including some who mentioned the versatility of these principles in all walks of life – personal, professional etc.
To illustrate their point and inspire you to apply these “SAILing tips” I’ve added more “before & after” examples. Here they are:
Personal Example:
Before (blah!): Thanks for the gift you gave me at my bridal shower. I’m sure I’ll be able to use it.
SAIL: Wendy, thanks so much for coming to my bridal shower last week (specific event). The candleholders you gave are exactly the ones I’ve been looking at for a long time (action taken). They’re similar to the ones we had as young kids growing up and bring back fond memories of great family times (impact). They’ll always remind me of our bond of friendship and the part you played in introducing me to John (link to higher goal).
Non-Profit Example:
Before (blah!): Thanks so much for your participation on the Outreach Committee. You’re a highly valued member.
SAIL: Ted, I really appreciate what you said last night in the Outreach Committee (specific event). Your comments during our discussion on the community campaign (action taken) really challenged us to think differently (impact). It’ll take this kind of visionary mindset to make us think beyond an event to really making a difference in the lives of people in our town (link to higher goal).
Business Example:
Before (blah): Thanks for all your work on the project. Your leadership was greatly appreciated.
SAIL: Jayla, it’s amazing what you’ve accomplished in leading the Transition Team (specific event). Your care for team members, positive attitude inspite of budget cuts and your commitment to ensure the highest quality deliverables were outstanding (action taken). This is a big step forward in the transformation of our department (impact) and supports the goal of our company to double the ramp-up speed of new clients (link to higher goal).
Now it’s your turn! It’s time for you to take the helm. Someone is waiting for you to “SAIL thank you.” Think of the difference you can make in their lives – just with the power of gratitude. If you’d like, you can practice “on me” by leaving a comment.
Picture: 
Sergio Verzier Photografy via Compfight
(from a novice SAILer) – Johannes, I really appreciate your weekly blog. Your commitment to weekly posts in addition to your family and work responsibilities is inspiring. You really encourage me to be more diligent in my own efforts. You efforts are creating a great foundation that people can use to improve their lives.
Thanks for leaving such a kind comment…I see you are in full SAILing mode – excellent! I likewise have benefited from your example and encouragement. It hasn’t been easy to “stick to it,” but responses and advice from good friends like you push me to continue. Thanks for your friendship and “iron sharpening iron.”