In the world of numbers and accounting, appreciation means "an increase in monetary value" over time. And while we all like this kind of appreciation, I don't think it's the only version of appreciation that we should be focused on. Appreciation also means "recognition and enjoyment of the good qualities of someone or something."
With Thanksgiving later this month, November is the month for expressing gratitude and giving thanks. And while these are similar to appreciation, I think there's a subtle - but important - difference.
Recognition is the common element between gratitude, thankfulness, and appreciation. But enjoyment of the good qualities of someone or something ... that's what makes appreciation so special.
See, expressing gratitude and giving thanks is external. It's focused on someone or something outside of ourselves. And we should definitely do this! (More on this in this month's Success Tip below.)
Appreciation, on the other hand, is a gift that goes both ways. The recognition part of appreciation is external toward that someone or something with the good qualities, while the enjoyment we receive is internal. It feeds our soul. It allows us to reflect that joy back onto the source of our appreciation, which, in turn, helps that source grow bigger and stronger, then it brings us even more enjoyment ... and so on, and so on, the circle continues to turn.
This is what they mean when they say, "what you appreciate, appreciates."
So, I encourage you to not just give thanks for your blessings, but also take the time to really appreciate them. It's important to embrace and express both gratitude AND appreciation! And not just this month, but all year long.
SUCCESS TIP OF THE MONTH
Expressing gratitude not only makes others feel good and appreciated, but it also does wonders in making ourselves feel better.
November is the month of gratitude, and, boy, do I have a lot to be thankful for ... a lot to appreciate!
We have all heard, whatever you put out in the world, is what you get back. Another that I hear frequently is what you focus on is what you receive. You may call it karma or the laws of the universe ... however you see it, they ring true, in my opinion.
Expressing gratitude not only makes others feel good and appreciated, but it also does wonders in making ourselves feel better. I can’t recall a time in my life that I ever felt bad while expressing gratitude. Therefore, I would dare to say that gratitude is the root to happiness.
Gratitude also builds happier and stronger relationships. Stronger relationships build better communities, and better communities produce happier people. Can you see the circle?
Gratitude is a muscle that we all must work to build. I want to share a quote with you from Brene Brown that really lays it out well:
“It’s not joy that makes us grateful, it’s gratitude that makes us joyful.”
So go out there and share your gratitude! Show your appreciation. You and others will feel better for it.
