The Idea:
Today’s challenge is to walk up to someone you don’t know—someone working in public—and sincerely thank them for what they do. It could be a cleaner, a bus driver, a security guard, a shelf-stocker, or a delivery person. Look them in the eye, say thank you with meaning, and then go on your way.
Why It’s Good:
Approaching someone you don’t know is scary. It makes your heart race because it breaks social norms. But doing it anyway builds the kind of confidence that doesn’t rely on approval. You speak up because it’s right, not because it’s easy.
It also uplifts someone who may rarely get recognized. Many of the people who hold society together are treated as invisible. Your words might be the only kind ones they hear today—or even all week. You become a moment of dignity in their day.
How to Do It:
- Look for Someone Doing Their Job Quietly: Sanitation workers, transport staff, store clerks—anyone whose effort is usually ignored.
- Approach Gently and Say It Clearly: “Hi, I just wanted to say thank you for the work you do. I really appreciate it.”
- Smile and Leave It at That: No need for more. The act is complete in those few seconds.
- Let the Fear Fade: Feel the power of doing something kind even when it felt awkward.
Relevant Quotes:
On speaking up for kindness:
“Be bold enough to use your voice, brave enough to listen to your heart, and strong enough to live the life you’ve imagined.”
~Unknown
On honoring others’ efforts:
“Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.”
~Voltaire
On small acts with lasting impact:
“Too often we underestimate the power of a kind word… All of which have the potential to turn a life around.”
~Leo Buscaglia
Takeaway:
Thanking someone who rarely gets thanked is a quiet act of courage and deep humanity. You make the world more compassionate—and you become the kind of person who speaks truth even when it trembles in your throat. That’s real confidence.
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