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| Articles » The Power of Appreciation in Leadership |
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The Power of Appreciation in Leadership |
| by Sally Stanleigh |
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| Each of us has probably, at some time or another, felt the effects
of appreciation in our life. It generates a marvelously giddy feeling
of self worth and creates a human connection to others that encourages
us towards even more collaborative relationships. As a leader, it
is important to give appreciation because it enhances self-esteem
for both giver and receiver and creates a human connection. One reason
why appreciation is powerful is that, “I appreciate you”
is very different than, “thank you.” While many of us
were taught to say please and thank you whether we wanted to or not,
because it is polite, we often do it automatically. An appreciation,
however, is special, intimate and should always be given thoughtfully. |
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According to Jack Canfield, in The Success Principles,
“A state of appreciation is one of the highest vibrational
emotional states possible.” Sadly, while appreciation is a
wonderful thing to receive, how often do we give it back to others
and practice it ourselves? |
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Oprah Winfrey talks about gratitude a lot on her television
show. She popularized, "The Gratitude Journal" by Sarah Ban Breathnach.
In the book, Ban Breathnach suggests that you list five things that
you are deeply thankful and grateful for what happened that day.
It will help you make each day a passionate experience and help
you on your path towards everyday greatness. |
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Ban Breathnach lost many of her senses as a result of an injury.
She couldn’t taste her food or smell her daughter’s
hair after it was washed. She couldn’t even listen to music
or speak on the phone because it made her dizzy and confused. Months
after her accident, she smelled the delicious wafts of spaghetti
and meat sauce being made by a friend, and she experienced deep
appreciation and gratitude that she never forgot again. She writes,
“For the next few happy weeks, I rediscovered life with the
same sense of wonder as my little girl. Biting into a ripe, juicy
peach. Listening to music. Seeing bright sunlight stream through
a window. Being able to wear my favourite sweater. And naturally,
cradling my daughter in my arms again. I was astonished and ashamed
at my appalling lack of appreciation for what had been right under
my nose. All these years later, I strive to make each day a passionate
experience, one in which I take time to savour life’s textures,
tastes, sights, sounds and aromas. Through the power and grace of
gratitude, you, too, can do the same.” |
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| In Stephen Covey’s book, Everyday Greatness, he says,
“People with everyday greatness are quick to exhibit everyday
gratitude. They do not take life or the kindness of others for granted.
They are eager to say thanks and the first to express praise. Many
have found the best sleeping pill comes from counting one’s
blessings, naming them one by one.” |
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As a leader, giving appreciation can be awkward and a bit stilted
at first but gets easier with practice. Giving appreciation is necessary
anytime, all the time. It’s best sooner than later. Set aside
some time for appreciation, especially during:
• Staff meetings
• Off-site meetings
•
Projects
• Peer reviews such as walkthroughs and inspections
• Coaching sessions
• Performance
reviews |
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At some level, each of us wants to feel appreciated. A recent
poll of 64,304 employees at companies that are clients of Sirota
Survey Intelligence, including 8,000 in Canada, showed that the
top three expectations of people of all age ranges is that they
will be treated with respect, dealt with equitably and will gain
a sense of connection with the organization on a work and personal
level. Showing appreciation is an easy and powerful way to deliver
on these expectations. |
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Some of us may have difficulty accepting a sincere appreciation.
Be respectful of that, and know that you may be surprised by the
reaction you get when you offer an appreciation. In a group, avoid
the temptation to lump everybody together as in, “I appreciate
everybody.” The intention may be good, but the effect is watered
down. |
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As a leader, you can set an example for others to follow by expressing
your own appreciation and making time as suggested above for your
team to do so. Once appreciation takes hold things may never be
the same on your team! |
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