Ever feel like just saying “thank you” or “great job” isn’t enough? Most of us crave genuine appreciation—we want to be seen, heard, and valued. In fact, research from Nancy Kline’s Time to Think shows that our minds work best when we feel genuinely appreciated.

So, how can you master the art of appreciation?

Try the 3 S’s:

Sincere – Make sure your words come from a real, authentic place.
Succinct – Keep it short and to the point.
Specific – Be clear and explicit in your praise.

Instead of just saying, “Wow, Sipho, fantastic job,” try something like: “Sipho, I really appreciate how you stayed calm during that tough meeting. Your detailed presentation on the solution showed true commitment. Thank you.”

By following these simple steps, your appreciation will not only feel more genuine but also have a lasting impact.

Author: Julia Kerr Henkel