What would make you happier: A $50 gift card or a $5 gift card?

That's a no-brainer. But what if your friend got the $50 gift card and you received the $5 gift card —now who would be happier? Be honest: Even if you’re an altruist, there’s probably a part of you that would be disappointed to receive a card of lesser value. Your friend, on the other hand, would be elated.

But here’s the surprising research: People who received a $5 Amazon gift card unexpectedly — as a “just because” gift — experienced nearly the same level of happiness as those who received a $50 Amazon gift card they expected, be it for a birthday, graduation or some other special occasion. For one-tenth the cost, it was possible to produce nearly the same value.

The secret lies in two words: Just because. Giving a gift for no apparent reason other than to show affection is an expression of care that surprises and delights. “Just because” gifts mean more to those who receive them, even if those gifts cost less. Turns out that a $5 gift card can mean a whole lot more than we expect.

"Just because" feedback

Think of feedback as that gift card. Sharing positive feedback “just because” with a colleague, friend or loved one can deliver a similar effect. After I shared this research at a recent keynote event, someone from the audience came up to me afterwards. She said: “You know, my company recently gave me an Excellence in Performance Award. I knew I was up for it, and when it was announced, I wasn’t surprised. It’s a nice honor, but honestly, the award just sits in a folder tucked away in my desk.” Then she said this: “But the spot award I got from one my closest colleagues, out of the blue? I framed it. I look at it everyday.”

The big lesson? Feedback doesn’t have to cost something to mean something. And the cost of sharing positive feedback is practically zero.

Positive feedback isn’t a specialty item or a “nice to have” feature of work. It’s an essential practice that helps us achieve better relationships and results. The best part? Going positive doesn’t take much time and requires virtually no training — just a deliberate effort to show others that their work matters and that they matter, too.

“Just because” feedback is just better. Try giving some today!