Work Communication: Make It the Season of Appreciation at Work
Posted on | December 10, 2009 | No Comments
Many of us feel stressed by the holidays. We are often caught up in the need to buy material gifts, cook big dinners, and entertain guests—and we forget the true essence of giving.
A better gift, especially in these economic times, might be to revisit the notion of giving altogether. Because in reality, most people want to be valued, appreciated and loved more than they want any material things. Helping to create those intangible feelings may be the greatest gift we can give.
Our workplaces are a perfect place to shift our modes of giving from material things to gratitude and appreciation. At this holiday season, here are some tips for giving what most people really want:
1. Give acknowledgement. Make a list of the people with whom you work and identify what you most appreciate about them. Think about not only what they have done this year but also who they are. What do they bring to the office each day that you value? Then express your sincere appreciation to them. A personal expression, either verbally or in a handwritten note, is quite powerful.
2. Invite moments of gratitude and appreciation. At your staff meeting ask everyone to share something that they are proud of accomplishing or something they are grateful for this year. Take a moment to observe and celebrate those collective reflections.
3. Give the gift of service. Choose a meaningful community service project in your area and invite others to join you in giving your time and service. If someone you know has a project on which they need help, offer to assist.
The beauty of this shift is that it is easy and yet very powerful. Make it simple, make it sincere and make it meaningful. Giving in this way will make the holiday season a truly joyous one.
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