This morning, as I gently woke up my teenage son, he mumbled, "I appreciate you." It wasn't the first time he had uttered those three words, but this time, it resonated differently. Feeling extra sleepy, he requested another 20 minutes in bed. Later, as I handed him his breakfast and reminded him it was time to start the day, those words slipped effortlessly from his lips: "I appreciate you."
In terms of gratitude, those three words hit differently than a simple "thank you." They carried a sincerity and warmth that lingered long after the words were spoken. It made me reflect on the fact that my son, even in his teenage years, is naturally grateful. Of course, he's not grateful all the time—after all, he is a teenager! But the frequency with which he expresses his appreciation is noteworthy and admirable.
Gratitude is a powerful trait, and my son has learned the art of acknowledging and valuing the efforts of others. It's a quality that many of us can learn from and incorporate into our daily lives, whether we are parents, friends, employers, employees, or community leaders.
As we navigate our roles and responsibilities, our primary motivation may not always be seeking praise and appreciation. Still, there is no denying that it feels incredibly good when we receive it. It serves as a reminder that our efforts, no matter how small, are seen and valued by those around us.
This interaction with my son has become a gentle nudge for me to reflect on my own expressions of gratitude. While I do express thanks (not often enough), there is something unique about the simplicity and depth of saying, "I appreciate you." It goes beyond acknowledging a specific action; it recognizes the person behind the action, emphasizing their value and contribution.
In the workplace, expressing appreciation can significantly boost morale and foster a sense of camaraderie among colleagues. A simple "I appreciate you" can go a long way in recognizing the hard work and dedication of team members. It's a small investment that yields substantial returns in terms of employee satisfaction and motivation.
Gratitude is not just a spoken word; it's a practice that radiates positivity. By incorporating regular expressions of appreciation into our daily lives, we can contribute to the creation of a culture where acknowledgment and kindness prevail. During this election year, any chance to further kindness is welcome.
For all the times I failed to show gratitude to my family members, friends, bosses, co-workers, employees, children and the readers of this blog, let me say it now, “I appreciate you.”
As I move forward, I plan to follow the lead of my teenage son in making gratitude a more integral part of my interactions. After all, in a world that often moves at a fast pace, taking a moment to say, "I appreciate you," can be a small yet powerful act that makes a lasting impact on those around us.
Enjoy "Kind and Generous" by Natalie Merchant
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