Gratitude is the memory of the heart. ~Jean Baptiste Massieu
Anyone who knows me or reads this blog for any period of time will know that I’m a big believer in the underdeveloped skill of acknowledgment: the art of giving clear and direct feedback on the positive ways of being and acting that you appreciate and value in another person.
Or another way of putting it is: thanks.
Since we all can struggle at times for words to express what we appreciate in others, here’s a quick cheat list for ways to thank, appreciate or acknowledge others on your team or in your workplace:
Thanks for…I appreciate…I really value:
Your dedication to our mission
Your integrity
Your dedication to setting and maintaining high standards
Your leadership
Your stewardship
Your contributions to meeting and exceeding our goals
Your positive attitude
Your willingness to work cooperatively with others
Your willingness to take on the tough job
Your honesty
Your willingness to tell it like it is
Your willingness to take risks
Your courage
Your creativity
Your curiosity
Your ideas
Your vision
Your innovative mindset
Your analytical skills
Your technical skills
Your care and concern for our team
Your receptivity to new ideas
Your sound advice
Your common sense
Your easy going style
Your ease and grace under pressure
Your maturity
Your wisdom
Your ability to rise above
Your patience
Your loyalty
Your sensitivity
Your trust
Your sincerity
Your professionalism
Your commitment
Your responsiveness
Your resilience
Your care
Your willingness to be constructive
Your ability to think and act strategically
Your willingness to help others
How you make my job easier
Now it’s your turn!
What did I miss?
What else do you appreciate about your team?
Tell me in the Comments below (or more importantly, tell your team!).
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Photo credit: iStock
Before specializing as a professional coach in 2004, I spent more than a decade in leadership, management and program development for state and local government and non-profit organizations. Now I get to help leaders and teams have more clarity and ability to stand up for what's important in their work and in their organizations. Working with me, leaders and teams find more meaning and purpose, feel happier and more confident, navigate change and conflict, and work together better.