Exercise your gratitude muscle

Saying thank you, sincerely and in a meaningful way, should be ingrained in your business practices.

In fact, it should be ingrained in your life. Jack Canfield, author of The Success Principles, writes:

“When you are in a state of appreciation and gratitude, you are in a state of abundance. You are appreciating what you do have instead of focusing on and complaining about what you don’t have. Your focus is on what you have received, and you always get more of what you focus on.” (page 357)

From a business point of view, showing gratitude is a key component of nurturing relationships.

Building an art business is all about forming strong relationships—with other artists, gallery dealers, curators, collectors, and anyone else who might be part of your community.

4 Ways to Show Gratitude

Here are four ways to start giving that gratitude muscle a workout.

1. Give someone your full attention.

Put your phone down. Be present.

For example, when you thank clerks helping you at the store (or anyone else for that matter), look into their eyes.

It’s so easy to stuff your change in your wallet and mumble “Thanks” as you turn and walk away. Make a little extra effort and demonstrate a more sincere response.

2. Keep a gratitude journal.

It can be separate from or part of your regular journal, but write down each day at least five things you’re grateful for professionally or personally.

As you’re writing your gratitudes, really feel them in your heart. Look back over them and consider the role it has in your day or week.

3. Start with thank you.

When responding to an email inquiry that shows interest in your art, begin with “Thank you for your interest in my work.”

Many people don’t take the time to write this simple sentence—preferring to jot off a response as swiftly as possible.

4. Send real thank-you notes.

Yep, notes of the handwritten variety.

This, you may know, is one of my favorite business secrets.

I learned it from my mother and saw it executed with perfection by the U.S. Senator I worked for. He always keeps a stack of correspondence cards on top of his desk so he can quickly write a note to someone.

Your handwritten notes will set you apart from everyone else and go farther than email for helping people remember you.

Make It a Habit

Taking the time to practice gratitude isn’t a bunch of hooey.

It’s a must for everyone trying to build relationships and an art career. Try it. I’ve witnessed the magic of a sincere Thank You over and over again!

[ See Action 11 in I’d Rather Be in the Studio! for more about following up with people. ]