The Power of Appreciation

The dictionary defines "appreciation" in a couple of ways. (To see Webster's definition: CLICK HERE.) Of course, in the real estate business, "appreciation" has to do with a home or property gaining in value over a period of time. But that's not the kind of appreciation this post is about. Instead, it's the appreciation that human beings can offer one another that I want to talk about. And this type of appreciation can and does at times go beyond words and can be conveyed without the use of words at all. But it's verbal appreciation (aside from this) that carries a whole lot of power (in my mind). When was the last time you heard somebody say, "I appreciate you," "I appreciate your work ethic," "I appreciate having you around," "I appreciate your friendship"? How did it make you feel? If it was somebody in your life that's earned the right to be heard, I'll bet you felt like a million dollars. I'll bet you were pumped up. Right? It's the power of appreciation. It reinforces value in and adds value to those around you (your family, your neighbors, your team at work, even a complete stranger?!, etc.). Who can you add value to today? Who can you "appreciate"?