How often do you express appreciation to those in your life? It's a marvelous tool, if offered with authenticity, to enhance relationships at both work and at home.
A truly warm, sincere, sense of appreciation will go a long way in motivating someone to go the distance for you. You'll both win if you can communicate your appreciation effectively. Some of us haven't learned yet how fundamentally effective this can be.
What better time than near Thanksgiving to explore appreciation, gratitude and the rewards of a well-placed "Thank you? "
To more fully understand it's impact, think of the result of not feeling valued. This happens in relations across the boardaffiliations, marriages, mother/father/child, friends. Divorcees often tell me: "Because I didn't feel appreciated any more, I simply quit working on our relationship."."
Appreciation is a simple thing. It doesn't take more time. The key is to have it be a way of living, not merely a tool to pull out when convenient and, secondly, communicate it in a way that is heard.
Showing authentic appreciation to someone in a manner in which they really 'get it' is a true art. Here are what I believe to be the crucial elements.
Genuineness. You cannot fake appreciation. It must come from your heart. If you are not honestly appreciative when acknowledging another, it comes off as being manipulative. People can see the difference.
Perspective. Sometimes, as a way to value those close to you, you've got to step back a pace. See the larger picture. How has this individual contributed to your success, joy, or well-being? Take whatever time is required to view through a lens of reality, to gain a clear perspective, to get others' viewpoints about this person's gifts to you.
Communication. Enter Mars/Venus. How do you communicate appreciation in a manner in which it is heard? How often? A male may say, "I told you I appreciated your cooking in 1997. What's changed since then?" A woman sees each dish she cooks as a work of art, and she' like to be recognized for this. Periodically ask "Do you know how much I value you?" Listen intently and learn from their response.
Delivery. There are many forms of communicationverbal acknowledgement, written notes, gifts, public acknowledgements, private surprises. Decipher what works for your recipient. The key is that they hear you. Stretch beyond your comfortable zone. Remember, I'm all about stretching you!
Here are two inspiring quotations about artful appreciation:
"There is more hunger for love and appreciation in this world than for bread." Mother Teresa
"Silent gratitude isn't much use to anyone." Gladys Browne Stern
How can you enrich relationships through artful appreciation this week? Write out what you treasure about each person with whom you'll interact through your professional or personal pursuits. When you see them you'll be prepped to sincerely deliver your message. Will they ever be surprised! Learn from their reactions.
Why not broaden your artful appreciation focus into the entire holiday season. In writing your holiday greetings, add a new twist: a note about what you appreciate about the recipient. You may be surprised at how great this makes you feel as well.
Next time, we'll explore the art of 'hearing and accepting' appreciation when it is directed toward you. This is something in which few of us are accomplished. Enjoy your discoveries and have a warm, wonderful, appreciative harvest season!
Laugh and the Office Laughs With You
Are you aware how a mood can permeate the workplace, especially if it's a downer emotion? Laughter can lighten that mood and here are some ways to do the lighten up.
Ready for a Change?
If you've spent years just "doing what you do," and in that have acquired considerable expertise via your experience, but you think that a change might be in order, perhaps you'll see yourself in this story of a Washington wine maker.
Authentic and Respectful Relationships
How can you be the change that changes others this week? Here is a story about relationship integrity (or rather, the lack of it). Let's see if there is something like this in your life and find a way to improve it.
