how to be a more thoughtful person

I am always striving to be a more thoughtful, intentional person. I think that one of the best gifts you can give someone is your thoughtfulness....so here are some simple tips that I think will help as you work on being a more thoughtful person.

listen. This is the first and most basic step. A lot of people ask you how you are doing, but not a lot of people really care or stay long enough to listen. Usually they say it mid stride and don't really slow down if you happened to say anything more than "fine". So when people are talking to you, or those around you... listen. Listen to what they are going through in their lives, upcoming events (tests, performances etc.) things that they are excited about, worried about.. need prayer for. Usually people are pretty open about sharing what is going on their lives, you just have to take the time to listen.

pay attention. This goes along with listening, but using your other senses. Some of us are naturally observant people.. others, not so much. Whether you are or aren't..practice paying attention. Notice when people are carrying a lot of bags, carrying an umbrella that is broken, what they are drinking, colors they like, things they collect... all these things will help you in being more thoughtful. Noticing these things are the key to being thoughtful in the way that will bless them where they are, rather than what you think they want or need.

act.This is often the step that I have a hard time with. A lot of times a certain person will come into my mind over and over throughout the day or even the week and I think to myself that I should give them a call, text, e-mail just to see how they are doing or do something thoughtful. I often get sidetracked even though I keep reminding myself to do something for that person. So the easiest thing is to do it as soon as you think of it. I really believe that many of these times God is telling me to do something for them, or to encourage them because they need it. He uses us to build and encourage each other in a tangible way.. so I like to think God is using me as His hands and heart to bless someone He loves.

so whether it is a quick note in the mail, a text or maybe its something HUGE... be aware of those around you and people that come to your mind, you can be His hands and feet too :)