Appreciation

Appreciation is similar to gratitude, except that several letters are different.

Both words mean realizing the good in your life and being both aware of, and

thankful for it. Many people recognize the value of appreciation towards

themselves, but not always the value of their appreciation towards others. Many expect that others should "just know" that they appreciate them, or think they shouldn't have to tell them all the time. Truth is, everyone should be told as much as possible how much they are appreciated, and everyone should make an effort to tell others how much they appreciate them as much as possible.

Think back to when you were a baby...remember? Remember lying there in your crib, relaxing, food or love was only a couple of shrieks and a scream away. Why on earth would you ever leave this blissful state? If you needed to go anywhere, you were picked up by a warm being who smelled like flowers, and carried you everywhere you needed to go. Transporting you from crib to sofa, sofa to carriage (or stroller if you prefer), carriage to auto, where you were then chauffered around town.

The reason, the only reason, you ever learned to crawl and then walk (a virtual evolution over the course of just a few months), a miracle of nature, was because of appreciation. If you'd began to crawl and they said nothing, you may not have bothered again for a couple of years. If when you'd taken your first steps, they'd thumbed their noses, you'd hardly have made it across the room. We are hardwired to value appreciation so much that it is the basis for all of our learning. Sitting up, crawling, walking, speaking, eating certain foods (like peas), going to the potty...everything you don't remember learning but are vital to your success as an adult were done so on the mere basis of appreciation.

Now, do you see why it matters so much?

Think of someone you appreciate. Now, text, or email them a message in two lines or less, thanking them for something specific, or just for being a great friend, sister, brother, mom, dad, accountant...whatever the case may be.

Unless they think you're up to something, you are guaranteed two things: First, you'll receive an equally appreciative reply. They may even tell you that they needed to hear this today. Second, you will have made them feel great, even if only for a little while, based on a tiny effort on your part. Actually, one more thing...you will feel better, too. This is a great habit to start doing on a more regular basis, yes?