Ranking atop the list of those who deserve end-of-year appreciation, cited by 53 percent of respondents, are neighbors, who throughout the year pick up our mail, keep an eye on our kids and ground our community roots. Coming in close behind – not surprisingly – are teachers at 51 percent.
According to the poll, the overwhelming majority of the American public, 70 percent, also say that they give more gifts than they receive during the winter holidays. According to M.J. Ryan, author of books such as Random Acts of Kindness and Attitudes of Gratitude and her newest book, Adaptability, the exchange of gifts widens our network of friends and builds stronger interpersonal connections, which we inherently desire, particularly in times of stress and uncertainty.
“There are powerful implications of expressing gratitude and appreciation through gifting, no matter how simple and easy,” says Ryan. “The influence of personal exchanges is even more meaningful today, as we rely on more virtual ways of connecting with one another every day.”
When it comes to expressing gratitude, Ryan believes flowers are one of the most meaningful gifts to share with important people in your life when simply saying ‘thank you’ isn’t enough. “There is something special about giving a gift of beauty that shows truly how much you care,” says Ryan. “Flowers are attractive, cheerful and are visibly displayed as a constant reminder of your appreciation.”
See America’s complete Top 10 List of Unsung Community Heroes who deserve holiday gratitude, including recommendations for gifting.
From neighbors and teachers to coworkers and even therapists, a nationwide poll reveals the unsung heroes in our lives and communities – beyond traditional family and friends – who Americans believe deserve their holiday thanks.