This is a post from my My 20-day Zappos + Buffer Values Challenge
“Show Gratitude”
This value is distinct, and yet very complimentary to yesterday’s value.
It took me until my late teens to realise many of the things I am grateful for, when after a series of turbulent times, the stars aligned for a moment, and things fell into place all at once, and suddenly there was a chance to consider where all the pieces of the recently assembled jigsaw had came from.
Since then, making an effort to go out of my way to thank people is something you may notice me do. I guess occasionally there are the times I’ve shouted about it – to encourage other people to follow. Most of the time however, I’m more likely to say in private, or by email/letter, how much I appreciate someone’s efforts – often, it doesn’t feel like anyone else’s business.
I think showing gratitude is important – acknowledging sacrifices, support and encouragement from others is important, and it also reflects into a strong desire to pay it back/give back to the same community.
One of my favourite stories about paying it forward is a simple story about running of petrol. If you’ve not read it maybe take a look?
The nice thing about gratitude, is that it’s free. It doesn’t cost anything to profusely thank someone for their time, or their help showing you something, or the manner in which they did their job.
But the impact it can have, is much larger than anything that can be bought. Surprising your IT department with an email of thanks. Sending a family member a card for helping you get through a tough time. Thanking people always has a positive impact, and the more frequent, free and enthusiastic you are about expressing your gratitude for others, the more you’ll find things go the way you want them to go. 🙂
I’m also grateful for the luck and privileges I take for granted, but I feel that discussion is actually separate from what this value is trying to convey.
