Hearing “I was thinking about you” can feel unexpectedly warm. It’s one of those phrases that carries care, attention, and emotional presence in just a few words. Many people search for how to respond to “I was thinking about you” because they want to reply in a way that feels genuine, not awkward or flat.
In this article, I’ll walk you through thoughtful, empathetic, and natural responses that fit different situations—romantic, friendly, professional, or deeply personal. Drawing from real conversations, emotional intelligence, and communication experience, these responses are designed to sound human, heartfelt, and appropriate.
1. “That really means a lot to me”
This response acknowledges the emotional effort behind the message.
- Best use: When you want to express appreciation
- Not to use: In overly casual or joking contexts
- Other ways to say: I appreciate that, That’s touching
- Example: “That really means a lot to me—thank you for saying that.”
2. “I’m glad you reached out”
This keeps the tone warm yet grounded.
- Best use: Reconnecting after time apart
- Not to use: If you want a romantic tone
- Other ways: Happy to hear from you
- Example: “I’m glad you reached out—it made my day better.”
3. “I was thinking about you too”
A simple way to mirror emotional energy.
- Best use: Mutual affection or closeness
- Not to use: If it’s not true—authenticity matters
- Other ways: You crossed my mind as well
- Example: “I was thinking about you too, actually.”
4. “That’s really kind of you”
Shows gratitude without intensity.
- Best use: Polite or professional settings
- Not to use: Deep emotional conversations
- Other ways: That’s thoughtful
- Example: “That’s really kind of you to say.”
5. “You just made me smile”
Adds light emotional warmth.
- Best use: Friendly or romantic chats
- Not to use: Formal communication
- Other ways: That made my day
- Example: “You just made me smile reading that.”
6. “I appreciate you thinking of me”
A respectful and emotionally intelligent reply.
- Best use: When you want sincerity
- Not to use: Flirty situations
- Other ways: Thanks for remembering me
- Example: “I really appreciate you thinking of me.”
7. “That’s sweet of you”
Short, warm, and expressive.
- Best use: Casual affectionate exchanges
- Not to use: Serious discussions
- Other ways: That’s lovely
- Example: “That’s sweet of you to say.”
8. “It means more than you know”
Adds emotional depth.
- Best use: Close relationships
- Not to use: New or distant connections
- Other ways: That touched me deeply
- Example: “It means more than you know—thank you.”
9. “I needed to hear that today”
Shows vulnerability and honesty.
- Best use: Emotional support moments
- Not to use: Professional settings
- Other ways: That came at the right time
- Example: “I really needed to hear that today.”
10. “That made my day better”
Positive and emotion boosting.
- Best use: Friendly messages
- Not to use: Serious conversations
- Other ways: Brightened my day
- Example: “That made my day better—thanks.”
11. “I’m grateful you thought of me”
Expresses gratitude and warmth.
- Best use: Meaningful relationships
- Not to use: Casual chats
- Other ways: I value that
- Example: “I’m truly grateful you thought of me.”
12. “That’s comforting to hear”
Acknowledges emotional reassurance.
- Best use: Supportive conversations
- Not to use: Light banter
- Other ways: That feels reassuring
- Example: “That’s comforting to hear, honestly.”
13. “You’re thoughtful, thank you”
Recognizes the person, not just the words.
- Best use: Appreciative replies
- Not to use: Romantic escalation
- Other ways: You’re very kind
- Example: “You’re thoughtful—thank you.”
14. “That means something to me”
Subtle but emotionally grounded.
- Best use: Personal conversations
- Not to use: Work settings
- Other ways: I value that
- Example: “That actually means something to me.”
15. “I’m happy you told me”
Encourages open communication.
- Best use: Emotional honesty
- Not to use: Formal replies
- Other ways: I’m glad you shared that
- Example: “I’m happy you told me.”
16. “That was nice to hear”
Neutral, safe, and polite.
- Best use: Professional or polite exchanges
- Not to use: Deep emotional talks
- Other ways: Good to know
- Example: “That was nice to hear, thank you.”
17. “I feel appreciated”
Direct and emotionally aware.
- Best use: When acknowledging care
- Not to use: Casual joking
- Other ways: That made me feel valued
- Example: “I feel appreciated hearing that.”
18. “That’s really thoughtful of you”
Balances warmth and respect.
- Best use: Friendly or professional
- Not to use: Intimate moments
- Other ways: That was considerate
- Example: “That’s really thoughtful of you.”
19. “I’m touched you thought of me”
Emotionally rich but gentle.
- Best use: Close bonds
- Not to use: New connections
- Other ways: That touched my heart
- Example: “I’m touched you thought of me.”
20. “That brought me comfort”
Highlights emotional impact.
- Best use: Supportive contexts
- Not to use: Casual conversations
- Other ways: That helped me
- Example: “That brought me comfort—thank you.”
21. “I’m glad I crossed your mind”
Light and friendly acknowledgment.
- Best use: Casual reconnecting
- Not to use: Serious talks
- Other ways: Nice to be remembered
- Example: “I’m glad I crossed your mind.”
22. “That made me feel seen”
Emotionally intelligent and affirming.
- Best use: Deep personal bonds
- Not to use: Professional settings
- Other ways: I felt noticed
- Example: “That made me feel seen—thank you.”
23. “I value that kind of thoughtfulness”
Shows maturity and awareness.
- Best use: Meaningful conversations
- Not to use: Light banter
- Other ways: I respect that
- Example: “I really value that kind of thoughtfulness.”
24. “That warmed my heart”
Soft, emotional, and human.
- Best use: Romantic or close relationships
- Not to use: Formal replies
- Other ways: That touched me
- Example: “That truly warmed my heart.”
25. “Thank you for thinking of me”
Classic, timeless, and universally appropriate.
- Best use: Any context
- Not to use: When more depth is expected
- Other ways: Thanks for remembering me
- Example: “Thank you for thinking of me—it means a lot.”
Why People Pick These Responses
People choose these responses because they feel natural, respectful, and emotionally aligned. From personal experience as a writer focused on human communication and emotional nuance, I’ve seen how the right response can strengthen relationships, reduce misunderstandings, and make people feel genuinely valued. These phrases work because they balance honesty, warmth, and clarity, helping conversations feel meaningful rather than forced.
