Thursday, June 11, 2009

Gratitude

I've had three of the best comments/compliments given to me within the past few months. These are kind statements that made me feel appreciated and important to someone else. My goal is to try and make similar statements to those around me so that they will know how much I appreciate them.

#1. I had met an artist who is well-known in her field. I was very impressed and excited to find out all about her. While enjoying a cup of coffee I had a chance to get to know her. Finally she stopped me and said "Enough about me. Tell me about yourself. I want to know about YOU." I was at a loss for words. No one had ever wanted to stop talking about themselves and ask about me. It made me feel important.

#2. The owner of the company that I work for gave me a birthday card recently. I was pleasantly surprised that she would not only remember my birthday, but take the time to give me a card. Inside she wrote that she was so happy with my work and that I was a perfect fit for the company. She told me that she looks forward to having me there for a long time. I felt appreciated. It was such a small note that left such a grand impression. Kind words mean so much.

#3. Today I was in a meeting. It could have been a negative, finger-pointing kind of meeting between Marketing and the Art Department. My boss started the meeting with a statement saying that Marketing had been too vague with their input for a catalog cover design. I stopped him at that point and asked if I could present some new concepts for the cover. I had taken all of the input and had come up with some classy, clean layouts. The owner of the company was impressed and selected one of my designs. Everyone was happy. Afterwards my boss came to my desk and said "Thank you. You made me look really good in there and I really appreciate that. Thanks." Again, it made me feel appreciated. I know that the way to success is to make your boss look good but it isn't always acknowledge by bosses. I am so delighted that he thanked me and appreciated my efforts to make him look good to the owner.

I continue to move forward making sure others know how much I appreciate them. It doesn't take money just kind and sincere words.

Positive and quiet thoughts fill my life.