“Thank God every day when you get up that you have something to do that day which must be done whether you like it or not. Being forced to work and forced to do your best will breed in you a hundred virtues which the idle will never know.” Basil Carpenter
Before conducting a half-day seminar for a room full of construction workers, I was warned to “stay away from the ‘touchy-feely’ stuff. And, for most of the day, I did.
Going through my signature “THANKS” process, the guys explored lots of strategies to create a more positive workplace. We got to the final step – the “A” for Acknowledge and Applaud (yes, I go out of order in the acronym), and I knew it was time to take a risk.
We had been talking about the importance of acknowledging people – both personally and professionally. I knew that many of these guys has worked together for years, and had probably never thanked each other. I said, “I want you all to stand up and find 2-3 people that you need to thank, and acknowledge the difference they make in your life.”
Then I held my breath.
They all did. I witnessed people shaking hands, slapping each other’s backs, hugging each other, laughing and talking. The positive energy was palpable. Then, as if the moment wasn’t perfect enough, the owner of the company took the mic. For three or four minutes, he shared how much he appreciated all of them. He told them he knew that he could be difficult to work for and he didn’t always let them know how important they were to the company. He then sincerely thanked them for all of their hard work.
It was magic.
Just because you’ve been around someone “forever,” don’t assume they know how you feel about them. Take the time TODAY and share with someone else how important they are to you.
Have fun,
Lisa
PS – None of us are guaranteed a tomorrow. Do it today – and you’ll have no regrets.
PPS – You can create employee engagement by providing education. Here’s how: https://eliteexpertsvideonetwork.com/engage-through-education/
