A Note Of Appreciation

This is my desk.

Yes!  I cleared away some piles of paper before taking this picture 🙂  But when I sit down to work I always see the two thank you cards displayed in the bottom corner.  I received both cards this summer.  One card is from my cousin and the other card is from a family friend.

At some point I will take them off my desk and put them into this scrapbook.

I save handwritten cards.  I treasure them.  When I’m feeling down or doubting myself I re-read these thoughtful words.  They are worth more to me than a closet full of shoes.

I’ve been reading David Richo’s book, How to Be An Adult in Relationships:  The Five Keys to Mindful Living, Richo says appreciation is crucial.

One thing I do after returning from business trips is I write a hand written thank you note to the HR manager whose site I just visited.  I personally thank them for hosting my on-site workshops and for taking the time out of their busy lives to organize and schedule my visit.  I drop the note in the mail within a week of returning home.

Feeling like you matter, feeling like someone else remembered your very existence and told you what you did was important and meaningful is profound.

Studies show that people who have close social networks and support have stronger immune systems. Just think about people who join cancer support groups, they tend to survive and thrive longer. College students who feel connected and encouraged by loved ones tend to fight off the cold and flu virus better during stressful exam times.  The simple act of letting someone know how much you appreciate them can lift them up and propel them in ways you never imagined.

Surround yourself with people who appreciate you, it’s good for your health, but remember relationships are a two way street.  Frequently acknowledge the people (family, friends, partners, employers, co-workers, children) who support you and let them know how important their presence is in your life.

3 Quick and Easy Ways to Say “Thank You”

1.  A handwritten note expressing your heartfelt gratitude.

2.  A kind word or spoken compliment.

3.  An out-of-the-blue “just because” care package.

And now I want to say Thank You to my Facebook friends who joined the Healthy Discoveries fan page.  If I had your individual mailing addresses I would send each and everyone of you a handwritten Thank You note.  Truly!  It means that much to me.  Your gesture did not, does not go unnoticed and I thank *you*!

To the rest of my readers and subscribers, if you are on Facebook and would like to join the Healthy Discoveries Fan Page click here.  I would love it if you joined and I thank *you* for your continued support!