Sincere Appreciation

I was made to feel very appreciated in the last couple weeks and it felt amazing. I felt it viscerally… I smiled a bit more frequently, stood a bit taller, and shared what was said to me with a close friend and when doing so, couldn’t help but have a big smile on my face. I’m not sure why this feedback felt so sincere, but it did and that made a real difference in the impact it had on me. Perhaps because it was out of the blue and by a couple different people with whom I respect?

Maybe it was that they went beyond the “this was helpful” and gave a bit more information about how I was making a difference? Was it their tone and the sincerity with which the compliments were delivered? Perhaps it was that they took the time to share their sentiments in this fast-paced world? Did I really do something that provided that much value?

The interesting part about it was that this feedback came when I didn’t feel like I was able to do enough. The mismatch between my disappointment about not delivering more and their sincerity on the value I was providing with the work I had done, gave me pause. 

I did take time to internalize what was being said. I gave the comments my full attention and let myself sit in the moment, later revisiting their words and sentiment.

Perhaps this sounds silly, but their words really made a difference to me. It also made me consider how I express my appreciation to ensure the recipient knows I am sincere with my appreciation.

How do you share sincere gratitude?

When receiving accolades, what made the difference for you to feel sincerely appreciated?