December is typically when I reflect on themy journeyprofessional and of personal growth., I need to feel I have grown before I can move forward. This year, though, there was a noticeable change in me that I can’t attribute to just this year. It definitely was something that was seeded before COVID, but COVID provided the conditions for this change to blossom. It has enriched both my professional and personal life. It may seem obvious and simple to achieve, but adopting and sustaining a disposition of being Genuinely Appreciative has not come quickly or easily.

My journey

10 years ago, my trail running partner and good friend, Derek Tobias, used to love sharing with me, “How lucky am I? If it wasn’t for you calling me today I wouldn’t be here right now earning my C10.” Derek always loved saying this whenever the run got tough and my mood soured. I initially found it annoying. I didn’t want to accept something that seemed inconsequential in that moment. I didn’t want someone trying to make me feel better about the position I was in. Over time, though, his positivity became infectious and I began to see the genius in it. This said, I still find his positivity annoying, but it is now a source of humor that is equally motivating during tough moments.

During COVID, Derek’s genuinely appreciative disposition didn’t only help me to be thankful for our trail runs in Hong Kong, but also helped me to recognize so many other things we had to be thankful for. Quite early in the pandemic I also started to realize how important it was for me to infect others with positivity. It was at this point that I shifted from being thankful for what I had, to expressing my appreciation to those that contributed to giving my life and work meaning.

I consciously adopted a mindset to look for, and express appreciation. I made it a daily habit. I soon began to focus on specific individuals, and in particular, family members and work associates that I wanted to grow closer to. In recognizing their contributions to my life, they in turn enriched my life, emotionally and cognitively.

What I am asking you to consider

During this Winter Break, and perhaps as a New Year’s resolution, I ask you to consciously consider taking 3-minutes out of everyday to express gratitude to someone close to you. They are often the ones we take most for granted. Hopefully, in time, the act of expressing appreciation becomes so natural to you that you find yourself giving it regularly to colleagues, who in time will reciprocate.

Expressing genuine appreciation involves acknowledging the efforts, qualities, and contributions of others with sincerity and authenticity. Here are 5 ways to express appreciation genuinely:

Be Present

Give your undivided attention. This allows you to notice and appreciate the subtleties and nuances that make them unique.

Listen Actively

This deepens your understanding of their perspective and helps you respond with empathy and gratitude.

Express Gratitude

A simple, heartfelt "thank you" can go a long way in making someone feel valued and respected.

Be Specific

Saying thank you is a great start, saying what specifically you are thankful to them for is even better.

Foster a Positive Attitude

Maintaining a positive outlook can help you see the good in people and situations, making it easier to express your appreciation sincerely.

5 Ways to Give Genuine Appreciation