Appreciation is as much a trait of leadership as any other traits. Appreciation provides an opportunity to reflect on what is good in life. What do you appreciate? People, concepts, culture, art, faith, God?
Defining appreciation is an exercise in values as well as humility. Looking outward at what is good provides a greater emphasis on what we appreciate.
As a principal I at times would write a Thanksgiving letter to let the staff know each trait of a person and how they were appreciated. I would frame this as a poem or as a letter and give as a way to support. The big necessity when doing this is ensuring that no one is missed. Letting people know what you appreciate about them is not only positive karma, it is also a way to reach out and build support. Being appreciative is fun and uplifting to the self.
A couple of years ago I put a gratitude post on Facebook each day of November to articulate my appreciation.
Appreciation does not end with others. It is important to define what one appreciates about oneself. This is an exercise is self enrichment and a way to ensure balance and whole life support.
Appreciation can also be a great way to build empathy in students. Having students articulate what they appreciate in their lives through writing, drawing, or speaking can enable growth and respect.
Another way to spread appreciation is to let students know why they are appreciated. I used to write a short note to my students, "I Like Because" and would give them a few sentences which reflected their gifts as I saw them. When I would hand these out, the room became silent. People do not often let others know how they are appreciated.
The holidays provide a natural moment to show appreciation for others, our world, and our life. Volunteerism increases during the holidays and people reach out both financially and physically. Gifts show appreciation. Short notes show appreciation. A kind word shows appreciation.
So What Do I Appreciate?
- My family.
- My friends.
- My job.
- My colleagues.
- My God.
- The cohort buddies who pushed me toward my dissertation.
- My ability to process.
- Those I have lost in my life.
- The ability to look, see, and reach out.
- Opportunity to teach others.
- Opportunity to learn.
- Opportunity to make lives better for people.
- Good health.
- Everything and everyone that has brought me to this point.
- Beauty in art and literature.
- Films and theatre.
- The beauty and diversity of California.
- The beauty and diversity of cultures and people.
- Travel
- Communication.
- A good book.
Appreciating and the process of appreciation can also be an exercise in growth for at risk kids. Often angry and victims, creating a regular process of articulating appreciation can bring kids out and begin to build trust. Students can move from reacting as a victim to reacting as a survivor.
Appreciation fills the soul. It is like sending a love letter to God to let Him know what you appreciate. If you do not believe that God gives these gifts, appreciation lists can be positive in analyzing one's life.
Appreciation is the opposite of entitlement. Appreciation reminds us that every day in every way we are responsible to look for the good, not assume, not expect, but remember that it is grace that brings us good.
Appreciation is happy too. Positive. Letting someone know they are appreciated can make their day.
It takes little time and can make a big difference.
This is a picture of my Grandma. One of the people I appreciate so much. Her influence, support, and strength have made a difference for me, my siblings, and cousins. She worked hard, had strong faith, and loved. She was fun and funny. I am so glad I had her in my life. 