REFLECTION:  In the last few weeks, the media has been very generous with coverage of my latest book, Press Pause…Think Again. A couple of morning TV shows, and several newspapers ran features. Many clients, colleagues and friends sent along their congrats.

However, one of the most treasured comments came from my Mom, who by phone and via Facebook made a point of saying, “We’re proud of you.” Even after all these years, hearing those words from one of my parents still has a profoundly uplifting effect on me.

I’d hazard a guess that appreciative comments have a positive effect on you, too. Especially so, when they come from someone whose opinion you value.

There is something validating and uplifting about others taking an interest in what is happening in your world, shining a little light in your direction, and taking the time to let you know you’re on their radar.

Research supports the positive impact of showing an interest in others and expressing appreciation. The single highest driver of engagement, according to a worldwide study conducted by Towers Watson, is that workers feel their managers are genuinely interested in their wellbeing. Marcial Losada discovered a high ratio of positive to negative comments in high performing teams. John Gottman observed the same positive ratio in flourishing marriages.

ACTION: If you want others to know that you care about their well being, then tell them why you value their presence (who they are), and how you value their contributions (what they do).

It’s mid week already. Who could use a word of two of appreciation from you today?

What will you say? How will you deliver the news?

QUOTES OF THE WEEK: There are high spots in all of our lives and most of them have come about through encouragement from someone else. I don’t care how great, how famous or successful a man or woman may be, each hungers for applause. – George M. Adams

Encouragement is the oxygen of the soul. – Attributed variously to each of these folks: Jessie Irwin John Maxwell, and George M. Adams. (Maybe they all agreed!)

RESOURCE OF THE WEEK: Check out this helpful article on ‘The ROI On Genuine Appreciation’.

If you’re curious, here are links to recent print and television features on Press Pause…Think Again.

READERS WRITE: In response to last week’s message, Insights For The Road Ahead, Pause reader LE suggests a sixth item to add to the list of potential regrets: “I wish I had written down my thoughts, my advice, my life learnings for the generations that will follow.”