Thank YouYesterday, I did something I don't always do. I sent an email to a blogger and writer in the industry, thanking him for all his hard work.

I blog a lot on search - a lot. I rarely get emails thanking me. But when I do, it does mean a lot. In the past, people did email feedback more often. Some of that feedback was hateful but most was positive. These days, hate emails bother me a lot less. But positive emails, little notes that say - thank you - are much appreciated.

I forgot how much it can mean to a blogger when you send a quick note. The response I got yesterday reminded me of that:

thanks so much, barry. i needed that.

So take a minute or two out of your week and send a blogger that you read a thank you. You don't have to send them a gift or money - just a quick email or tweet that you appreciate what they do.

And please don't thank me - that would just seem weird after I wrote this.