Ping. A new email. Whoa. Haven't heard from her in... gosh, years.
It was a former client writing to share a "life update" with me. She was emailing, out of the blue, to tell me what's been happening in her world since we wrapped up our coaching work together.
"Suzanne: So much has changed for me. I barely even recognize the person I used to be. There's one thing you said, in particular, that still rings in my ears, even years later. You're still with me every day."
She went on to tell me that "one thing" that I said. The "thing" that still rings in her ears.
My eyes welled with tears.
My former client didn't know it, but her email reached me at the perfect time.
I was having a low energy moment, feeling a bit distracted and listless in the steamy, muggy island heat, and... zing! Her kind, unexpected note lit me up like a firecracker. Thanks to her email, I felt supercharged for the rest of my day.
"There's one thing you said, in particular, that still rings in my ears, even years later...."
That's what she'd told me. The funny thing? That "one thing" that I said to her? I totally do not remember saying it. It was just a "sentence" to me. Ordinary. Unremarkable. Part of a regular coaching session. No big deal... to me. But to her? It meant so much. My words unlocked something inside of her. That "one little thing" I said... turned out to be a really big deal.
And her "one little email" to me? That was a big deal, too.
That's the miraculous power of words.
Sometimes, it's the smallest thing... the simplest sentence... one tiny expression of encouragement and love... or just a quick email out of the blue... that can really impact someone's day.
Who have you been meaning to reach out to lately? Reach out. Do it.
What's that "one little thing" you've been meaning to say? Say it.
You just never know.
That "one little thing" could make all the difference in the world.
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Dr. Suzanne Gelb is a clinical psychologist, life coach and family law attorney.
She believes that it is never too late to become the person you want to be. Strong. Confident. Calm. Creative. Free of all of the burdens that have held you back -- no matter what has happened in the past.
Her insights on personal growth have been featured on more than 200 radio programs, 200 TV interviews and online at TIME, Forbes, Newsweek, NBC's TODAY.com, The Daily Love, MindBodyGreen, and many other places.
Step into her virtual office at DrSuzanneGelb.com, explore her blog or sign up to receive a free meditation and her weekly writings on health, happiness and self-respect.
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Disclaimer: This article, including all of its links, is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional or psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always contact your health practitioner before beginning any new health or well-being practice for yourself or your family.
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