During the holiday season, inboxes fill up with messages of appreciation.
“Thank you!”
“We couldn’t do it without our amazing clients!”
“We’re so thankful!”
All well-meaning. All true. But also…all starting to sound the same.
Introducing: Gratitude Fatigue.
Gratitude fatigue happens when expressions of ‘thanks’ start to feel automated, transactional, and inauthentic—the result of well-intended but overly generalized nods of appreciation.
So What Cuts Through Obligatory Thank You’s? You Guessed it — Stories.
Don’t just tell your audience you’re thankful. Tell them a story.
Stories are where authenticity lives. They give your audience a reason to feel connected, not just acknowledged. Stories highlight meaning, growth, impact, and relationships — all the feels that actually make people feel that you care.
How Do You Use Stories to Show Gratitude and Cut through the ‘Thank You’s?’
If you’re sharing a message of gratitude with your audience, clients, or team, ditch generic phrases and try this storytelling format instead.
- “This time last year, I was [challenge or mindset].
- Thanks to you, [moment of support].
- Today, I’m feeling truly grateful for you and [their impact in your life or business, and why it matters].”
This is gratitude that’s real. That’s memorable. That’s yours. And it’s so much more than a standard statement like, “We’re thankful for your support.” Authentic, personalized gratitude is acknowledgement of a solid connection and an investment in a relationship.
A Story-Driven Brand Always Connects Deeper
If you’re looking to bring more depth, clarity, and emotional resonance to your brand’s content, we’d love to help shape your stories.
Let’s make sure next year’s messages don’t get lost in the holiday inbox noise.