“Thanks” – simple, yet ever so powerful! As our planet spins around and people are caught up in their own world, it may be easy for some to forget the art of appreciation. Small gestures throughout the day are often bestowed on strangers that may seem insignificant and perhaps even expected by the receiver, which is a shame. How hard is it to say thanks, give a little smile, nod or wave?
“We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit.” – Albert Schweitzer

Being on the receiving end of acknowledgement, and feeling appreciated is a basic human need. Think about a time where you did something for someone and it wasn’t even mentioned, how did you feel? And how about another time when you did something for someone who showed great appreciation, how did that feel? The differences are like “chalk & cheese”, right?

Giving genuine appreciation not only contributes to a healthy dose of fuel for the soul, it can also motivate and lift a person’s mood. Many of us have had a variety of work bosses, and I’m sure we’d remember the praise, or lack of appreciation. I like this quote: “Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy, they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.” – Marcel Proust

It’s also important to appreciate our own attributes, accomplishments and blessings. All too often we beat ourselves up for the things we didn’t tick off the to-do list, or the occasional mistake, but what about all the simple little things we DID do?! This quote kinda fits:  “You won’t be happy with more until you’re happy with what you’ve got.” -Viki King.

Let’s remember appreciation, great and small.