A phrase that doesn't necessarily mean a physical location, but can imply how one was taught as they grew up. Let's take the art of appreciation. Not just for ones self, but for those around us. Our friends, family, spouses, even our co-workers.
It is said that "talk is cheap" and that "actions speak louder than words" Well, I think that's true and "where I come from", that's what I was taught.
So here are 50 ways to show your appreciation...
1. Share a specific example of something they
did for you and how it
made a difference in your life.
2. Do something little but thoughtful for them—like clean up after
Thanksgiving dinner!
3. Give a long, intimate hug; or if you know they don’t like hugs,
stick out your hand for a handshake to cater to their preferences and make them smile.
4. Tell them you’re there if they have
anything they want to talk about—and let them know they have your full attention.
5. Give them something of yours that you think
they would enjoy, and let them know specifically why you want them to have it.
6. Invite them to do something you know
they’ve always wanted to do.
7. Encourage them to try something you know
they want to try, but haven’t yet
because they’re scared.
8. Offer to do something you know they don’t
enjoy doing, like organizing their closet or mowing their lawn.
9. Compliment them on a talent, skill, or
strength that you admire.
10. Look them straight in the eyes and say, “You make the world a better place.”
Show Gratitude to People Who Challenge
You
11. Fully listen to what they have to say, instead of forming your rebuttal in your head and waiting
to speak.
12. Thank them for introducing you to a new
way to look at things, even if you still
don’t agree.
13. Pinpoint something you admire about their
commitment to their beliefs—even if you don’t hold them, as well.
14. Resist the urge to tell them they’re
wrong.
15. Challenge them right back to be the best
they can be, with love and positive
intentions.
16. If they inspired you to push outside your
comfort zone, thank them for inspiring you to take a risk, and let them know
how it paid off.
17. Write a blog post about how they helped
you see things differently and dedicate it to
them.
18. Use the lesson this person teaches you
through your interactions, whether it’s patience, compassion, or courage.
19. Introduce them to someone who may
challenge them and help them grow, as
they’ve done for you.
20. Let them know how you appreciate when they
challenge you in a loving, non-confrontational way—and if they don’t do
that, be calm and kind when you ask them to do that going forward.
Show Gratitude to People Who Serve You
21. Give a larger tip than usual.
22. If they have a tip jar, include a
thoughtful note of appreciation along with your coins or bills.
23. Smile when you order or enlist their assistance. Smiles are contagious, so give one away!
24. If they serve you regularly, acknowledge
something they always do well—like work efficiently or stay calm under
pressure.
25. Exhibit patience, even if you’re in a hurry.
26. Let their superior know they do an
outstanding job.
27. Keep their workplace clean—for example, at a
coffee shop, clean up after yourself at the sugar stand.
28. Offer to get a coffee for them, if it’s someone
working in or outside your home.
29. If you have their contact information,
send an email of appreciation—and let them know you just wanted to express
your gratitude, so they don’t need to write back.
30. Praise them in a review on Yelp and/or recommend them to people you know.
Show Gratitude to People Who Work with
You
31. Write a hand-written thank you note, acknowledging things
you value about them and their work.
32. Offer to lighten their workload in some way if you are able.
33. Bring back lunch for them if you know they’re working hard and likely haven’t had a
chance to grab something.
34. If you’re running a meeting, keep it short to show them you appreciate and
respect their time.
35. Ask them about their lives instead of
always being all business. This doesn’t mean you
need to pry into personal matters; it just means showing an interest in who
they are as people.
36. Be the calm, light voice in a stressful
situation.
37. Give them flowers to brighten their desk.
38. Let their boss know how they’re doing a
great job and contributing to
the company.
39. Listen fully if they’re having a difficult day, and recognize if
they need space to figure things out on their own, not advice or help.
40. Remember the little things
can make a big difference!
Show Gratitude for Yourself
41. Make a list of ways you’ve impressed
yourself lately.
42. Treat yourself to something you enjoy, like a pedicure or a
massage.
43. If someone compliments you, thank them and let them know you’re proud of that skill, talent, or
accomplishment.
44. Compliment yourself—say it while looking
in the mirror, write it in a journal, or jot it on a sticky note and put it on
your refrigerator.
45. Give yourself time to enjoy a passion
you’re sometimes too busy to fit in.
46. Take an inventory of all the good things
you’ve done for other people and the world.
47. Write yourself a love letter. Seriously, start with “Dear Lori” (but insert your own
name) and describe all the things you admire about yourself.
48. Let go of any conditions you have for being
kind to yourself—meaning you appreciate even if you didn’t accomplish or do
anything specific.
49. Schedule a date with yourself—an afternoon or
evening that’s all about you.
50. Share the beauty that is you with the
people around you, knowing they’re fortunate
to have you in their lives.
Can you add to this list? Go ahead and comment below.
I am fortunate to have you, my Twitter followers, my Facebook friends and those of you who are reading my book Thank you. You make the world a better place!
