Displaying Gratitude to Students

Gratitude is defined as the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness. Do you display readiness to show thankfulness and appreciation? Do you strive to return kindness? Consider for a moment how you show gratitude in your interactions with your students. 

Showing gratitude matters. It can strengthen your personal and business connections, boost your mood, ease tension or conflict, and create more fulfilling relationships. Some studies even show that practicing gratitude can improve the immune system and lower depressive tendencies.

The Bible has this to say about having an attitude of gratitude:

Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. -1 Thessalonians 5:18

David thought, “I will show kindness to (him), just as his father showed kindness to me.” -2 Samuel 10:2

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. -Psalms 136:1

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as your Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. -Colossians 2:6-7

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise. – Psalms 100:4

Your students are fundamental to your yoga business. What can you do to ensure they know that you appreciate them? Here are some ideas to display gratitude to your students:

• Tell someone, “Thank you!” A simple verbal acknowledgement to someone can make their day and yours.
• Find a specific reason, even if it’s small, to praise someone. For example, you could thank a long-time student for their loyalty to you.
• Listen intently. You can show gratitude without saying anything, simply by being a good listener when someone needs an ear. 
• Recognize their accomplishments in your class and show appreciation for their efforts in a hand-written note.
• Bring snacks! Everyone loves being surprised with a tasty treat. 
• Occasionally give small tokens of appreciation. Treat students with a cup of coffee or an inspiring book.
• Is one of your students struggling in some way? Whether it be a health issue, marriage difficulties or something else, if you know a student is struggling, simply being there for them in their time of need is an excellent way to show your thankfulness for them.
• Lastly, encourage your students to also show gratitude for each other and the people in their lives. Create a gratitude challenge among students to show appreciation for one another in creative ways.