How do you feel when you are being appreciated?  When your kid tells you that you are his greatest inspiration.  When your spouse gives you a back massage.  When your boss praises you in front of your colleagues.  When you receive a thank-you note from a customer.  When a stranger holds the door for you.  When someone says thank you.

The feeling is wonderful, right?  You feel yourself being lifted and any worry or frustration you may have at the moment simply disappear.  The effect can be nourishing and/or healing.  Since being appreciated is such a wonderful gift and it really doesn't cost much, why not make it a habit to show your appreciation and make someone's day whenever you can?

You can show your appreciation in many ways.  It does not have to be elaborate.  It's the thought that counts.  Here's some suggestions:

1) Say thank you.  It is the easiest thing to do and it creates warm and good feelings.  Do it often.  When someone brings you something.  When someone helps you.  When someone makes your day.

2) Send a thank-you note or card.  There are many occasions to write.  For a good dining experience.  For an issue satisfactorily resolved.  For help received.  For great time spent together.

3) Give sincere compliments.  If you like your colleague's new hair style, tell her so.  If you like a friend's idea, say so.  If you see a beautiful piece of floral arrangement, compliment the person behind the great work.

4) Plant small surprises.  Give a small present or hand-made gift when it is not expected.  You do not have to wait till birthdays or some occasions to show your appreciation.

5) Recognize efforts even if the outcome is unknown.  When your child puts in effort to improve his grade.  When your staff stays behind to handle a last-minute order.  When your spouse is on his first attempt to cook a meal.  Appreciate their efforts.  Say something nice to motivate.

6) Show your appreciation in person.  Tell the person how much you appreciate him or her.  Let the person know that he or she matters a lot to you.

7) Show your appreciation through actions.  Gave the person a warm bear hug.  Instead of ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away', try ‘a hug a day keeps the doctor away'.

8)  Do something impromptu.  Tell your wife not to cook this evening as you will bring the family out for dinner.  Give her a well deserved break.

9) Always focus on the good in people and tell them so.  Spread goodwill, sprinkle sunshine.

Show your appreciation.  Help make our living space more joyful and meaningful.