The Power of Appreciation

As Thanksgiving approaches in the USA, many people think of gratitude. But this year, I invite you to explore a subtle yet powerful shift: moving from gratitude to appreciation.

While these concepts might seem interchangeable, their distinction can transform how we view abundance in our careers and lives.

Gratitude often comes with an undertone of relief – that "whew, I got it" feeling when something works out in our favor. While being thankful is valuable, this mindset can inadvertently reinforce a sense of scarcity. It can keep us tethered to the idea that we barely made it, that we're operating from a place of "just enough."

Appreciation, in contrast, starts from a different premise altogether. Rather than focusing on what we've received, appreciation acknowledges what already exists.

It's the difference between "I'm grateful I got this promotion" and "I appreciate the skills and value I bring to my work." This shift might seem subtle, but its impact is profound.

When we operate from appreciation, we make decisions differently. Instead of reacting from fear or scarcity, we can move forward with clarity and confidence. We recognize our existing resources, capabilities, and support systems. This awareness becomes a foundation for strategic thinking rather than reactive decision-making.

The holiday season is a perfect time to practice this shift. Notice how it affects your present presence and perspective on what's possible.

This approach builds resilience, too. When we regularly appreciate our capabilities and resources, we approach challenges from a place of strength. We're better equipped to navigate difficulties because we're grounded in recognizing our existing abundance rather than focused on what we lack.

As we move into this season of reflection, I encourage you to experiment with appreciation. Notice how it affects your decision-making, relationships, and sense of possibility. The shift from "thank goodness I have this" to "I appreciate having this" might transform how you view your challenges and opportunities.

Abundance isn't just about what we receive – it's about recognizing the fullness in our lives and using that awareness to move forward with confidence and clarity.

Wishing you a beautiful holiday season.