
I was trying to work from home while taking care of my parents at the same time. In doing so, you’ll help the other person understand the reason you feel the way you do.Īs you know, last year was extremely hard for me. Be specific, and explain both what you appreciate and why.

It may be as simple as bringing a smile to your face on a tough day or as big as supporting you through a difficult period.

Next, focus on the impact their actions have had on you.

I’ve seen this time and again through my work training leaders in the art of recognition and engagement. The problem is that many of us hold fears around expressing our thanks to others. When we give or experience thanks daily, we strengthen these neural pathways. Dopamine and serotonin are two neurotransmitters responsible for immediately uplifting our moods. The many benefits of gratitude may be explained by the feel-good chemicals released in our brains upon expressing or receiving it.

Another study found that receiving more frequent appreciation from our colleagues and managers doesn’t only make us feel respected, it’s also linked to better performance. Whether you’ve accepted a task while your plate is already full, worked through weekends to get a project off the ground, or simply been there for a work friend when they needed your support, an acknowledgement or “thank you” can go a long way in making us feel good about the efforts we put in - and the research supports this.Ī recent study from McKinsey & Company found that although most employers believe that the large number of people who quit their jobs this year were looking for better compensation, most were leaving because they didn’t feel valued and lacked a sense of belonging at work.
