I read somewhere that millions of people go to bed hungry every night. Not hungry for food. Hungry for appreciation, a smile, a kind word, to be noticed, a sincere ‘well done.’
We all need that proverbial pat on the back once in a while. No matter where it comes from. If you are a Wordle fan like me and a million others – I’ll bet you nod and smile when the words Excellent, Splendid, or Awesome pop up. What would be the point if no one acknowledged your genius for getting the right word in two or three attempts? Would you quit? Probably.
Why then are we so stingy with our appreciation and praise? A generous monetary tip is appreciated. It's soon spent. Generous words go right to the heart amd stay there. They make our day. We sleep well.
We lavish praise on children and pets for their efforts. Eating with a spoon –- Big smile. Clap for Susie. Fetching the ball – clever dog. We do it without thinking. It’s second nature. Why and when does it stop? Why don’t we widen the circle?
The word 'thank you' is a good word. It's even better when words are added that are special to the person being thanked. The parking attendant who unjams your credit card. Thank you. I’m glad you were here to rescue me. The checkout person. You are really quick. How do you do that? Thank you. Acknowledging their skills means you noticed.
Some years ago, I took my grandsons to Chipotle. The person bussing tables was doing a great job. What do you notice, I asked my grandsons? He’s working hard was the response. Why don’t you thank him, so he knows you noticed? They did. And they pooled their enormous resources so they could leave ‘a bit extra.’
It’s that little bit extra that is often missing. And it’s that little bit extra we miss. The extra bit that tells us you really noticed. It’s not just a courtesy ‘thank you’ – it’s ‘I noticed what you did, and it was good’ kind of thank you.
I got the wordle word my third attempt today. And wordle popped up and said IMPRESSIVE! Wow. I'll be back tomorrow.
That little bit extra makes a difference.
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