Is appreciation contagious? It should be. How important is it? Do we show or receive appropriate amounts of appreciation? Day after day we go to work, put forth our best effort and don't expect much for an honest day's work. But how does the day totally change when you get that unexpected thank you? If you are like me, it can make a huge difference, and make all the work that much more fulfilling. Being appreciated makes me worker harder, raises my self-esteem to new heights, and makes the job I am performing that much more enjoyable.

Merriam-Webster's Dictionary:

Function: verb

1 a : to grasp the nature, worth, quality, or significance of b : to value or admire highly c : to judge with heightened perception or understanding : be fully aware of d : to recognize with gratitude
2 : to increase the value of intransitive senses : to increase in number or value

Think for a second, and consider how much effort it takes to show appreciation to others? If two simple words such as, "Thank You" can change the outlook of someone's day, aren't they worth saying? Those few quick seconds it takes to show your appreciation for a job well done can really make the difference in someone's day.

So with that, I throw a challenge to the administrative community. Take time out to say thank you for a job well done. If you have a rush printing job and the shop you take it to turns it around in record time, or a co-worker pitches in to help with a project just say, "Hey, I really appreciate what you did".

If you want to take your appreciation to a more personal level an excellent way is to do that is to send an E-card. It is free, but it shows you care enough to take the time to think of someone, and say "thanks". If you are in a position where you are able to budget recognition gifts, a simple gift basket is a great idea as well! People find it easy to point out the negative but many times the positive aspect of someone's work is over looked. A simple thought can go a long way. Perhaps your company can take an innovative approach and start an award program. Create a type certificate and approach management to use them!

If we all start with ourselves and show our appreciation and our thanks, hopefully others will follow. What harm can it do to try? I appreciate you all for taking the time to read this! Start today and find a way to thank someone.