As is my tradition in November, I am dedicating this piece to gratitude. We live in a world that is so fast-paced and busy, time is seldom taken to truly and deeply express gratitude.
I am not talking about a polite ‘thank you’. I am speaking here about something deeper, something that you take the time to feel and express. It takes courage to be open enough to let people know that you are grateful.
Our entire culture, from advertising to therapy, is designed to convince you that it is all about you. Let me be clear: it is not all about you. I want you to take a look at your life this month and ask yourself a simple yet powerful question: Are you deeply grateful and are you mindful enough about it to experience that gratitude and express it? Do not let another day pass without a profound commitment to feeling and expressing it.
What do you think the world would be like if each of us committed to gratefully recognize one person, every day? On Veterans Day today, and as Thanksgiving approaches, I have a challenge for you. The challenge is a lifelong commitment to recognition and gratitude.
As many of you know, I created a club a few years back called the ROPED Club. I am inviting you to join or renew your commitment to this membership. The club is free of fees but NOT free of responsibility. ROPED stands for Recognize One Person Every Day. If you want to join, here are the rules: You MUST purposefully recognize one person every day for the rest of your life. It can be done anywhere at anytime; just committing to recognize one person every day is the goal. It’s that simple!
What is purposeful recognition?
1. Specific – be certain the recognition is about something the person did.
2. Appreciative – be clear that it mattered to you!
3. Personal – make it connected to the person and, when possible, do it live!
4. Immediate – don’t wait! Do it as soon as possible!
What can you share with your peers on this topic? Add a comment below to keep the discussion going.
