Cultivating The Art of Appreciation

I once heard someone quote Mary Kay Ash saying “Everyone has an invisible sign hanging from their neck saying, ‘Make me feel important.’” I have never forgotten this quote.

Sometimes we wish the sign was NOT SO invisible. We feel unappreciated as women, wives, moms, partners, at work… and that leads to unhappiness, because nothing brings more happiness than knowing we matter, we are special and someone cares.

The deepest craving of human nature is the need to be appreciated. ~ William James 

We all crave appreciation. It is an innate human need, whether we realize it or not or we’d like to admit it or not.

Because appreciation can come in so many shapes and forms, it is extremely important to find out what makes us feel appreciated. It could be applause, recognition, praise or compliments, the desire to spend time with you, physical touch, protection and support, a gift, etc.

Regularly expressing appreciation brings happiness, fulfillment and transformation to both the recipient and the giver. Appreciation is such a magical gift, even when it’s given “behind our back.”

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. ~ Leo Buscaglia 

Have you ever wondered: “Am I supposed to remain in a setting where I am not noticed, valued or being treated with respect?”

I have found that it is remarkably unhealthy physically, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually to experience lack of appreciation on a regular basis. There comes a point when it becomes demoralizing to see your efforts  and talents go unnoticed, unacknowledged and unrewarded.

I feel appreciated when:

1. People “Find the good – and praise it.” (Alex Haley quote)
2. People listen, looking attentively and not interrupting, present with me
3. People ask questions (act interested in me and my life)
4. People hug me and offer comforting touch
5. People offer a helping hand
6. People spend time with me
7. People share their stories with me, ask for my help or advice 

No one can read minds…that I know of, anyway. When we have wonderful thoughts and feelings about someone, we  must put them into words, into loving body language and touch, into powerful actions that convey that we are there for them.

Expressed appreciation is a core value of a healthy relationship.

Appreciation, recognition, encouragement, praise, and motivation are ways to strengthen bonds between people, connecting them on a meaningful level. It really feels good to be appreciated!

What are ways you show appreciation and feel appreciated?

[ela]