There is a saying among the Igbo people: “eto ogiri osi we isi” (praise the fermented locust bean soup spice and it will ooze a strong smell/scent/aroma) and another, “eto dike na nke omere, omekwa ozo” (praise the hero for what they have done, so that they may do more or they will do it again). Though their meanings can be quite conflicting depending on interpretation, these proverbs remind us of the importance of genuine recognition and appreciation.
I recall an exercise where we were asked to give honest and sincere appreciation to someone else. Afterwards, we reflected on a few questions:
- Do you find it easier to give or receive appreciation?
- How did you feel giving appreciation?
- How did you feel receiving appreciation?
Some of us found it much easier to give appreciation than to receive it. However, this raised an important question: How often do we truly offer sincere appreciation to those around us?
I once read that appreciation is “food for the soul.” When we only feed the body and forget the soul, people can still feel empty inside.
Here’s one simple way to make our appreciation truly meaningful:
Be specific. The more specific we are in our appreciation, the less likely it is to come across as empty flattery.
Here are a few ideas for what to appreciate:
– Things: People are often proud of the things they own or have created.
– Achievements: Recognize accomplishments-whether in studies, research, or projects that required significant effort.
– Personal Traits: Highlighting unique and positive characteristics makes our appreciation heartfelt and meaningful.
– Evidence: Backing our appreciation with concrete examples adds credibility and shows our observations are genuine.
Danielle Pierre once said, “Recognition is the heart’s way of saying, ‘I see you, and you matter.’” Similarly, William Arthur Ward reminds us that, “Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.”
Let’s make it a habit to nourish the souls of those around us with sincere and thoughtful appreciation, inspiring a positive workplace culture and a better world.