1 Minute Habit · #224
1 Minute Habit for August 12
Text someone a thank you message
Why This Habit Helps
UCLA research shows expressing gratitude activates the hypothalamus (regulating stress) and ventral tegmental area (dopamine production) - benefiting sender and receiver neurologically.
These 'micro-connections' accumulate into what positive psychologists call 'social capital' - the invisible network of goodwill that sustains us during challenges.
What You’ll Do in 1 Minute
- Strengthens relationships more than compliments (Cornell study)
- Creates 'reciprocity ripple' - 73% recipients pay it forward
- Boosts your oxytocin (bonding hormone) levels
- Counters negativity bias in brain's memory formation
- Builds 'emotional savings account' for tough times
Quick Overview
An MIT experiment found that people significantly underestimate how positively gratitude messages will be received - what feels 'awkward' to send often means the world to receive.
Unlike social media likes (broadcast to many), targeted thanks have what psychologists call 'high relational value' - they signal the recipient was specifically noticed and valued.
What the Research Says
How to Get Started
- Be specific: 'Thanks for ____ when ____' > generic thanks
- Send unexpectedly (not after obvious favors)
- Include how it impacted you emotionally/practically
- Use voice memo for more personal touch
- Schedule recurring 'gratitude reminder' contacts
How to Adapt This Habit
If you’re a busy professional
Add to email signature: 'Thank you for ____ this week'
If you’re a parent
Text your child's teacher/coach unexpectedly
If you’re a student or learner
Message a classmate who helped you understand material
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💬 Your Success Stories
I started sending one 'unexpected thanks' text daily during a rough patch. Months later, my friend showed me she'd saved my message about her listening skills during her job interview prep. Turns out my offhand gratitude became her confidence boost when she needed it most.
— Javier
