POSITIVE TASK #3: Saying “Please” and “Thank you.”

What is causing folks to not use the words, “Please, and “Thank You”  as it needs to be used? Terms that I learned and used as a girl, is almost non-existent in my everyday encounters.  I often look quizzically at folks I encounter, wondering if they have forgotten how to use the words!  I see the use of the terms as appropriate, polite, endearing ways to communicate. Of course there are times when I forget to be polite to my children, friends, and others I encounter, but I do try to remember to practice saying “Please” and/or “Thank You,” as often as possible and whenever necessary.  The idea of it being necessary might lead one to ask, when do we need to use these terms?  Maybe our thoughts should instead turn to when should we not use the terms!  I would go out on a limb to say that in almost 90% of our interaction, the need for saying “Please” and “Thank You,” is absolutely necessary. 


Here are some examples of when using “please” is necessary:

• When requesting something…May I use your telephone, please?
• Giving instructions to make the order more polite…Please fill in this form
• Confirming help…Would you like to come with us? - Yes, please.
• When navigating your way through a crowd…Please, excuse me.   Thank you.

When not to use please”…

• As a response to someone saying thank You…Thank you.  Please
• Telling someone something….I am going to the store.

Here are some examples of when  saying “Thank You” is necessary:

• When a compliment is given…You're a fantastic tennis player!
  Thank you.
• To accept and/or refuse an offer…Would you like something to drink?
  Thank you. I'd like a cola, please.  Do you want to join us at the concert tonight?
  No thank you. I need to study!
• When buying/giving someone a cup of coffee….”Thank you.”
• When someone does something nice for you

When saying “Thank You” is not necessary:​

•     When someone does something unkind to you.
•     When someone refuses to acknowledge your presence.
•     When someone rushes past you shoving you as they go by.

In our society today, to be polite is often forgotten.  We should however not forget that being polite is the correct form of behavior to exhibit.  It communicates to others that we respect them, and value their time and services. It is a practice of civility that can improve our interactions in society, and society at large. The positives far outweigh the negatives and even though some may question what polite behavior is,  might I dare say unless you have been brought up under a rock, you know what it is to be polite.  No debating here.


Can you think of situations when you should use these terms? Practice and share with others how it’s going.


www.youtube.com/watch?v=jtSuTIuWBxc

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How to say thank you…


1. Make eye contact (very important if you want to appear sincere!)


2. Smile


3. Speak in a clear, friendly voice. Don't mutter!


4. Be specific – what exactly are you thanking the person for?


For example:
Thank you for your help with this.
Thank you for your thoughtfulness.
Thank you for the delicious dinner.
http://www.thankyoudiva.com/saying-thank-you.html