Acknowledge others’ unseen efforts.

Today, more often than not, we are in a state of busyness and distraction with all kinds of noise vying for our attention.  In the fervor of the day and our quest to fit it all in, we often fail to stop and acknowledge what otherwise goes unseen.

 Even the exchange of pleasantries has been sacrificed for the sake of time, as you walk fast by your neighbor, thinking “gotta get in my cardio,” or begin a work meeting abruptly, thinking “gotta hit all my talking points.”   

Pleasantries, small talk, polite conversation- what once was an “always occurrence” has become a “sometimes phenomenon,” and for many, has transcended into a “why bother?”

So, if these simple exchanges are dying, think about how rare it is to stop what you’re doing to acknowledge another person’s kindness, their efforts or whatever it is that made a positive impact on your work or your day. 

Here’s the thing, whatever your business, or roles in life for that matter, the gateway to success is in fact human connection.  Something that is in much need of revival across all parts of our lives, mine included! 

Aside from doing your part to preserve the art of small talk (really, it’s in need of help!), try to acknowledge at least one person’s effort every day. We seem to be a bit better at this outside of work…  

“I’m so grateful you knocked on my door, so I didn’t get a street sweeping ticket.”

“You always make an extra effort to get the boys together.  That really means a lot to me.”

“Thanks for having us all over for dinner.  I know you went to a lot of trouble to make sure there was something for everyone.”

However, at work, big wins often get big praise, but day-to-day efforts are often overlooked and go unappreciated. So, instead of jumping on to the next task, let’s take the extra few minutes for…

“Thanks for getting those reports done early.”

“Because of your analysis, the management team meeting was so much more productive.”

“I know you took it upon yourself to help Candice set up the event.  I just wanted you to know that your willingness to help is appreciated and doesn’t go unnoticed.”

Whether in work or in life, simply saying, “I see you.  I know you made a difference,” is one of the greatest positive motivators for which you can’t even begin to quantify the upside.