The Hidden Power of Appreciation

That moment when someone truly sees your effort - it changes everything. Appreciation isn't just saying "thanks" or sending the occasional gift card. It's about creating genuine connections that energize both people and performance.

Think about the last time someone caught you doing something right. Remember that warm glow? That's appreciation working its magic, rewiring our brains for positivity and trust. When we feel valued, we naturally give more of ourselves to our work and relationships.

But here's the challenge - we're often too busy looking for what's wrong instead of celebrating what's right. The good news? Authentic appreciation is a skill we can develop.

Start small: notice one positive thing about each team member daily. Share specific observations about their work or approach. "I noticed how you handled that tough client call with such patience" carries more weight than a generic "good job."

Make it a habit to pause and reflect. What made your day better? Who contributed to your success? Express that appreciation immediately - don't save it for performance reviews. Create appreciation rituals in your team, like starting meetings with quick wins or success stories.

Remember, appreciation multiplies. When you model genuine gratitude, others naturally follow suit. It's contagious in the best possible way.

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Mitch Jackson | links