Who / What are you Appreciating today!!

In this fast paced world; we often fail to recognize the efforts that people around us put in. We are so obsessed with results that we appreciate only if the efforts of someone results in success. At the same time; we are focused on finding problems / complaining so much that we forget to appreciate the good things around us.

Simple gestures like saying " Good work", "Pat on the back", appreciation email etc can go a long way in boosting the other person's morale and motivation levels.

There are so many ways of showing your appreciation which are non monetary in nature; which creates a lasting impression. Just imagine yourself having a tough day and then seeing an old email from your manager appreciating your performance. It can instantly give you a positive dose of self belief and lift your spirits.

I still remember -

a. In my school days; our Maths teacher used to write "Good" in our notebook whenever someone solved a problem quickly. This used to act as an instant dose of motivation to all students.

b. During MBA, one of the Professor used to give a cadbury at the end of the session to students who were regular in the class (and not the toppers :)

Appreciating someone for their efforts results in a sustained relationship. Do appreciate -

a. Your Team mates / Colleagues- Whenever they have put in extra or continuous efforts / done something new / came up with some new ideas (even if it doesn't result in something significant). We just assume that they are supposed to work hard and rarely appreciate. Don't wait for appraisal discussion. Appreciating people around you in workspace can go a long way in creating a positive work environment.

b. Your Parents (Family) - They are the one's who spend time, effort and money to make you what you are and have made so many sacrifices over the years. We hardly thank them assuming that its their duty to take care of us. Saying "Thank You" to them; giving them a hug or just letting them know that you appreciate their efforts can make them feel so proud.

c. Your friends - Be it your school days, college or corporate life - Friends are an integral part of our life and one of the biggest assets that anyone can have. They are the one's who stay with us during good & bad days; they would have seen you at your highs and lows & still stand by you; no matter what. In this era of whatsapp & Instagram, we rarely thank our friends (except on friendship day). For me; friendship is like Wine; it becomes more stronger with time :)

d. Your spouse - Someone with whom you spend most of the time and who helps to shape you as a better person. Your spouse ensures your wellbeing by constantly guiding you and giving a fresh perspective. They are the one's who adjust with your good and bad habits, live with your tantrums and still always try to make you cheerful.

e. Your well-wishers - In today's virtual world; there would be a lot of people whom we would have never met; however who still go the extra way to help us in some way or the other. I, still remember one of my LinkedIn contacts whom I had never met helped me with a referral when I was looking a Job change (I got an interview call few days later and converted it :)

Appreciating someone known or unknown in any way can make their day special !!!

Regards

Jinesh