Tag: appreciate

Some Thanksgivings are harder than others. What I mean by that is that sometimes, our world may seem at such odds with itself that we’re hard-pressed to feel the gratitude we wish would come naturally.

The divisive political situation in our country pains many this year; it seems there’s no end to the conflicts and confrontations that divide rather than unite us.

And yet . . . I had the great pleasure of attending a performance of the hit musical "Hamilton" recently. Along with the sheer fun, exuberance and astonishing creativity of the work, there’s a profound truth that runs through it, which was brought out in one of the final scenes.

I have been in many platonic and romantic relationships where all I’ve craved was to feel loved. Where all I wanted was approval of who I was. To feel cared for.

I have been in many work relationships where all I’ve craved was to feel appreciated. Where all I wanted was validation for the work that I’ve done. To feel valued.

These cravings didn’t all happen at once. Sometimes I’d be more focused on my friendships and romantic relationships and then other times work; but what I found was that I had this overall sense that I wasn’t getting what I needed. And while I wasn’t getting what I needed if you asked me what would satisfy this craving I couldn’t tell you.

You’ll always remember your first real "grown up" job. Like any first in life, it’s pretty memorable.

Was it a good work setting? Did you feel valued? Appreciated? Or did your efforts go unnoticed or worse were they put down? Belittled?

I always enjoyed working at a large stockbroking firm during my summer vacations. I felt grown up, working in a corporate atmosphere, my first real exposure to the real world.

A feeling of being underappreciated is one of the chief complaints I hear when working with couples. Both men and women commonly tell me that their loved ones seem to take their efforts for granted. A sense of not being appreciated can take a toll on even the best of marriages.

A meaningful expression of gratitude can signify deep respect and appreciation for the efforts—large or small—of another person. Partners feel valued and encouraged when their actions are noticed and appreciated. Studies show that couples who focus on consistently and genuinely expressing gratitude have healthier and longer-lasting relationships. If your relationship is suffering from a lack of mutual appreciation, read on.