Praise expresses approval. “Good job.”
Appreciation expresses value. “What you did matters.”
Praise and appreciation overlap. But praise leans toward performance. Appreciation leans toward the person.
Praise: “You handled that difficult conversation well.”
Appreciation: “I appreciate the courage you bring to difficult situations.”
Appreciation is fuel.
Unappreciated
It’s easy to feel unappreciated because no one appreciates you like you.
Hard work goes unnoticed. Sacrifices get overlooked.
Unappreciated people justify destructive behaviors. They…
- Do the minimum.
- Put self-interest ahead of the team.
- Burn out.
- Distrust leaders.
- Withdraw and eventually quit.
- May sabotage the organization and team.
Navigating Appreciation
Appreciation turns drudgery into commitment. But dependence on appreciation becomes life-sucking resentment.
Enjoy appreciation. Don’t demand it.
Serve because it’s who you are, not because it’s appreciated.
Proactive Appreciation
Don’t wait to receive appreciation. Show it.
- Give the respect you wish you received.
- Notice the contributions of others.
- Give credit generously.
- Express gratitude persistently.
- Do worthy work when applause is absent.
Don’t wait for people to appreciate you before becoming the person you aspire to be.
Project: Reflect on the impact feeling unappreciated has had on you. With that in mind, how can you appreciate others today?
How to Get the Appreciation You Deserve – Leadership Freak
10 Helpful Ways To Address Feeling Unappreciated at Work | Indeed.com
