It’s the Little Moments in Life that Matter the Most

It’s often the little things that matter most.  When someone you respect – or someone out of the blue – acknowledges you for work you have done or notices a characteristic or quality about you, do you feel a moment of joy?  Don’t you love it when someone really “gets” you – they understand exactly what you’re feeling or saying?  I believe our lives would be richer and more satisfying if we received (and gave) sincere and authentic words and expressions of appreciation more often. You can help bring that feeling of joy and contentment to other people by your actions and increase the number of these joyful “little moments” for people in your life.

What you can do:

1. When you’re talking with someone, give them your complete attention.  Be in the moment.  Listen with your undivided attention.  Put yourself in their shoes.  We tend to feel cared for, valued, and heard when someone is fully engaged with what we are communicating.

2. Pay attention and notice people who do things that benefit you.  We would have more special moments in our lives if more of us acknowledged individuals who do good work and who provide outstanding service.  Don’t overlook the people who perform traditionally low prestige, but important tasks – the receptionist, the janitor, the grocery bagger.

When I worked in a large office building in downtown Seattle, I enjoyed walking into our office each morning.  Our office always looked neat and tidy. It was vacuumed and dusted with garbage cans emptied.  When I worked late, it was a treat for me to meet the people who did this work.  I shared with them how appreciative I was of the work they did for us.  Yes, it was their job, but I wanted them to know how much I valued their work and how it affected me and my team.  Because they worked at night, these people were not at home with their children.  They seemed so grateful to hear words of appreciation and to know that their work made a difference.

3. Each of us possesses unique qualities and characteristics.  Some of us pay attention to details; others see the big picture. Some people always seem to have a can-do attitude and others have the ability to recognize potential issues.  When you recognize the value other people’s qualities bring to your life, you are better able to acknowledge those individuals.  Highlighting a specific positive impact not only validates the quality for that person, but also increases the likelihood that you will see more of that behavior.

4. Ask for someone’s opinion or help.  We all like to know that we are needed and valued.  When you ask for someone’s opinion, you are communicating, “I value your perspective.” When you ask for someone’s help, expertise, and time, you are communicating that you value the contribution they offer.  While most people enjoy helping and knowing they offer value, it’s important that they hear this directly from those who benefit from their time and expertise.

5. Send someone a letter or card – just out of the blue.  Let them know why you appreciate them for who they are.  I suspect you will make their day!

6. Invite someone you haven’t connected with in a while to do something with you.  Knowing what they enjoy – a one-on-one coffee, a ball game or a hike – increases the likelihood that they will feel delighted with your invitation.  Asking to spend time together is a way of communicating, “I enjoy your company”.

7. Recognize that what feels special and appreciative to one person may not resonate as much with another. We each have our own way that feels special to us. Some people feel overjoyed when they are given a gift.  A thoughtful gift communicates to them, “I was thinking about you”.  Others feel touched by a hug or a pat on the back; some people feel special when someone offers help to them, especially when they are particularly busy and overwhelmed.

Some people get that feeling of elation when they are publicly recognized, while others feel a sense of inner joy when they receive a one-on-one acknowledgment from someone they care about whose opinion matters to them.  All of these gestures communicate caring.  By tailoring your appreciation to the preferred style of the recipient, it is more likely that your appreciation will be well received.

There are numerous ways to make someone’s day.  What would you add to the list?  What will you do today to offer an appreciation to someone?

FYI: I’m delighted that you read my blog posts.  I’d be grateful to you if you would share my posts with your friends and colleagues via social media.  Please help spread the impact of appreciation.  If you would like to receive Moving Messages’ posts directly, please sign up on the website contact form.

• Share on Facebook.
• Share on Twitter.
• Share on Google+
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share on StumbleUpon