why: gratitude

Thank you for reading this!

I start almost every reply to student emails, comments, and messages with a simple phrase: "Thank you."

Hi,

Thank you for your message.

Thank you for your comment.

Thank you for your email.

Sometimes I feel more casual, or more enthusiastic. In those moments, I lead with, "Thanks."

"Thanks, Esmerelda!

"Thanks, Jimmy!

It's fun to take a second bite of the gratitude apple. Once in a while, after I finish answering the question, or explaining a concept or a process, or I receiving work, I close with, "Thanks again." It's easy. It's free. It's the best investment I make each day, because it's honest - I am truly grateful for each and every effort the people in my life make - and the goodwill it creates inevitably leads to better outcomes. Which makes everyone thankful, especially in today's world.

Thanks again for reading this.