By Chris Wahl

I heard a story from a public servant who was charged with leading his organization through major transformational change; change that had already begun before he accepted the leadership position. The challenge was enormous and included working opposing sides of a big issue. Heretofore, the two "camps"involved did not speak with each other except when they absolutely could not avoid it. This leader's job was to navigate the issues and create a win-win solution for everyone involved. Most of the people who worked directly for this leader had their doubts. But the leader crafted a vision, shared it generously, and eventually began to notice that even the loudest naysayers were beginning to shift and see a new possibility.

What was this leader's secret? He was encouraging, appreciative, and human in all of his interactions. He led from a sense of purpose. He never forgot how hard people worked to achieve the new vision. When the "win-win" had been accomplished, he took the time to write a note to his direct reports, thanking them for their faith and good work. Immediately upon receiving the note, one of his direct reports stood in the leader's office doorway, holding the note, visibly moved. "That's the only time in 15 years that anyone has ever taken the time to thank me. Thank you."

As poet David Whyte writes in his poem, "The Age of Information," "one good word is bread for a thousand."

Reflection

Many people think positive things and forget to say them. In the next week or two, as you go about your work, make it a practice to verbalize your appreciation at least once a day. Notice what happens. If you already believe you show appreciation, "up it" - show it even more often. Be intentional about it.