As you guys know I am always seeking ways to be the best parent, partner, friend, and sister that I can be.

Well recently I am been trying something new with the people closest to me, and it has been a game changer. When I do this ONE daily action I get a deeper connection with my partner, my child/family and my friends.

An APPRECIATION.

So what is an appreciation?

Appreciation:

• Recognition of the quality, and value of another person, a positive valuation of their existence or certain traits they possess and behaviors they have done for you or someone else.

This is actually different then showing gratitude. When you give an appreciation it actually goes deeper in a way that communicates how much what they did or said truly meant to you.

This subtle shift from gratitude to appreciation involves being more present  – more thoughtfully aware and active in reflecting on the reasons we feel grateful about something or someone.

For example, I am grateful for the amazing daughter I have however, I can take that further by giving her an appreciation of how I love that she brings music and laughter into our home that makes it feel alive and joyful. I have moved from thankfulness to a more conscious awareness of what ways I appreciate her.

By giving the people I love, a DAILY (yes everyday) appreciation, I am making my world much more joyful.

Here’s how it looks: 

First I ask if it’s a good time to give them an appreciation (this is a MUST because it’s not all about me and when I want to tell them something, I need to find out if it’s actually a good time for them to hear it.)

Secondly, I let them know specifically what I appreciate about them:

“I really appreciate that I have a friend like you that I am able to talk to and have as a sounding board. It makes me feel loved and cared for.”

It’s amazing the reaction I have gotten when I give these appreciations to the people in my life. They are touched and feel valued and loved.

What a way to leave them feeling!

I hope this sparks an interest in starting daily appreciations with the people in your life.

What a world we can create with this ONE little action.

Your Soul Coach,