Imagine. Create. Inspire.

In this journey of life, we all have felt unappreciated. Whether it's in the home, in a relationship, in the workplace, or in other realms of life, we've all heard and uttered the words "They just don't appreciate me." While some might be tempted to brush this off as a self-centered view, it might be turned another way. What do we do on a day-to-day basis to show and express our appreciation for those around us? Never underestimate the value an expression of appreciation could have on someone who is down and/or hurting, and remember everyone gets down and feels pain.

I have a dear friend who I see only rarely, however one of the things I am continually impressed by is the way she handles people. My friend is someone who people love to serve and to serve with. She is someone who people respond to and love. Why? As I considered this question, I was struck with several observations of which I am going to share the biggest one I saw. My friend is someone who makes every person she comes across feel important and appreciated. I started paying close attention to some of the practices she employed with people. She always calls people by name, even if they're the waiter that she'll only be with for the next hour. She always thanks people for the things they do for her whether it's something preformed in the past or something that is yet to be preformed. And, she never fails to tell someone what she enjoyed and/or what she appreciated about the experience or her time with them. My friend is someone who genuinely appreciates others in her life and who openly expresses this.


We spend every day surrounded by people who feel unappreciated. Appreciation is motivation. Look for ways to express your appreciation to those around you. In doing so, not only will you lend a bright spot in their day, but the connectivity you will feel through appreciation of others will be a greater reward. My challenge today is to express appreciation to someone today, and tomorrow, and the day after that, etc. Even if it's in the little things, the effect it can have can be immeasurable.