Day #4: Appreciation in Action
Welcome to Day 4 of the 30-Day Say It Skillfully Challenge! So far, you've done some practice in leading myself first (me), connecting as human beings (you), and creating alignment with others (we). Today is the gift that helps bring all 3 together, and it doesn't cost you a cent: appreciation.
Virtually no one feels "over-appreciated"! In the speed of life, appreciation is often assumed, delayed, or skipped altogether, especially when things feel busy or results-driven. Yet it's one of the simplest and most powerful ways to strengthen connection, build trust, and elevate performance. When appreciation is expressed skillfully, people feel valued. And when people feel valued, trust deepens and performance rises.
Three tips to appreciation that acknowledge someone and strengthen relationships:
1. Timely: Ideal if in the moment, but circling back after the fact still works great
2. Specific: Acknowledge the effort/contribution in a way where the other knows that you know what they did
3. Heartfelt: Let your genuine feeling come across–not as obligation, but with the respect and gratitude for someone going the extra mile, making a difference, or doing what was right when it may not have been easy
Today's Challenge: Think of someone you interact with regularly (a colleague, friend, family member, or partner) and ask yourself: "What do I genuinely appreciate about them that often goes unsaid?" Then make someone's day and express it.
It could be a quick message, a longer conversation, or even a sentence dropped into the flow of the day. Take notice of not just their reaction, but how it shifts the energy between you.
How did expressing appreciation affect the other person? How did it affect you? What might change if this became a more regular habit? Appreciation, when practiced intentionally, becomes a powerful multiplier for trust, connection, and results.
Cheering for you to make the most of this 30-day challenge–whether you're recommitting to a resolution, trying something new, or simply choosing to turn over a fresh leaf this year. One small step today can change how you show up all year long. You've got this!
