by Jasmine Engineer, 2024–2025 Miss CEO Ambassador
Two things I ask myself when people have helped me or given me
advice are “How do I thank them?” and “How should I pay it forward?”
This is something I’ve often wondered about in various situations. Reaching out to someone after a period of no communication can feel awkward, but it’s essential to show gratitude to those who have supported you. So, how can we approach this gracefully?
First, it’s important to remember that there’s no single “right” or “wrong” way — only the approach that feels right to you. I see two primary methods: you can thank the person directly, pay it forward to others, or even do both. Each option allows you to express appreciation in a way that resonates with your style and circumstances.
Method 1: Thanking the Person
The first approach is to thank the person or people who helped you. No matter how much time has passed, expressing gratitude can brighten their day. You can reach out in various ways — email, a handwritten note, or even a phone call.
Start by reintroducing yourself, then thank them sincerely. While a simple “thank you” is meaningful, consider going further. If their support had a significant impact on your life, it’s worth sharing how you’ve put their advice or help into action. Be specific — explain what resonated with you, how you applied it, and what results it led to.
This added detail not only shows your appreciation but also demonstrates the value of their contribution. For someone who cared enough to help, knowing they made a difference can be incredibly fulfilling. In a way, it’s like sharing a small but meaningful piece of your journey — and that connection is invaluable.
Method 2: Paying it Forward
Another approach is paying it forward, which can take many different forms depending on the individual. It might be something small and personal or larger in scale — shared online or done in person. The key is to choose an action that feels meaningful and authentic to you.
Paying it forward can reflect your values and intentions in countless ways. It might be as simple as sharing what you’ve learned to inspire others or as ambitious as launching a campaign or starting a business. Whatever form it takes, if it holds significance for you, it’s a worthwhile and impactful way to spend your time.
Final thoughts
You can choose to use one method, the other, or both — there’s no set structure or timeline. The important thing is to express gratitude in a way that feels authentic to you.
Thanking those who have helped us is a meaningful gesture, and when we pay their kindness forward, it creates a ripple effect of gratitude and generosity. This ripple can touch lives in ways we may never witness, making it all the more extraordinary and impactful.
About the author:
Jasmine Engineer is a junior at Pioneer High School in San Jose, California. A passionate dancer, Jasmine discovered her confidence and capabilities through performing, which inspired her to get involved in her school’s service learning class. In this role, she helps organize impactful events like the blood drive and canned food drive. After attending the Miss CEO Summer Leadership Academy, Jasmine found her passion for empowering herself and other women, a mission she hopes to continue and expand in the future.
