Appreciation.
It’s that simple magic that can turn a regular Tuesday into something that almost feels like a Friday. Whether it’s a heartfelt thank you for that person who held the elevator for you (when they really didn’t have to) or a compliment for a colleague who went above and beyond, appreciation is the key to keeping relationships strong and spirits high.
After all, who doesn’t love feeling valued? When someone tells you, “Hey, you did a great job,” it’s like you’re suddenly invincible, ready to take on anything – including, yes, even that dreaded 3 p.m. meeting.
In this blog post, we’re celebrating the power of appreciation with some of the most inspiring quotes to help you find the right words. So, next time you’re at a loss for what to say to show gratitude, let these quotes guide you.
And who knows, maybe by the end of this, you’ll feel inspired to send someone a quick “You’re awesome” text – you know, just because.
-
“Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.” – Voltaire
Voltaire really knew what he was talking about here. When we appreciate the excellence in others, it’s like we’re borrowing a little piece of it for ourselves. You’re not just recognizing someone else’s efforts; you’re also sharing in the joy of their success. It’s almost like a win-win situation – except you don’t have to do the hard work; you just get to enjoy the results. Now that’s efficiency.
-
“The roots of all goodness lie in the soil of appreciation for goodness.” – Dalai Lama
The Dalai Lama has a point here – everything good starts with a little bit of appreciation. It’s like gardening: if you want those flowers (or good vibes) to grow, you have to nurture them. In other words, keep sprinkling those appreciation seeds around, and eventually, you’ll find yourself in a beautiful garden of positivity. Just don’t forget to water your own flowers too.
The Art of Happiness
A Handbook for LivingDalai Lama Mindfulness 1998
Available in: | |
-
“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.” – William Arthur Ward
Imagine spending hours wrapping up the perfect present, adding all the frills and a cute bow – only to keep it sitting on the shelf. It’s kind of like when you appreciate someone but never actually tell them. You have this great gift, but it’s just going to waste. Go ahead and give that present! Tell people you appreciate them – it’s way better than letting it collect dust.
-
“The more one does and sees and feels, the more one is able to do, and the more genuine may be one’s appreciation of fundamental things like home, and love, and understanding companionship.” – Amelia Earhart
Amelia Earhart might have been talking about the sky, but this applies on the ground too. The more we go through, the more we learn to appreciate those fundamental, everyday things – like that hot cup of coffee on a Monday morning, or your best friend who always knows how to make you laugh. Appreciation grows when you live, experience, and realise just how precious the simple things are.
-
“Appreciation can make a day, even change a life. Your willingness to put it into words is all that is necessary.” – Margaret Cousins
Ever had a day when everything seemed to be going wrong, and then someone gave you a compliment or said a sincere thank you? It’s amazing how a few kind words can completely flip a day around. Appreciation doesn’t require grand gestures or complicated speeches – it’s about those small, meaningful words that can make all the difference. Go ahead and try it; you might just change someone’s life today.
-
“Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues but the parent of all others.” – Cicero
Cicero didn’t hold back here – he called gratitude the greatest of virtues. And if you think about it, he might be onto something. When we appreciate what we have and those around us, it’s easier to be kind, patient, and understanding. It’s like gratitude is the superhero that spawns a whole team of other virtues. You could even call it the “Avenger” of positive character traits (though Cicero probably wasn’t thinking of superheroes).
-
“Silent gratitude isn’t very much use to anyone.” – Gertrude Stein
Gertrude Stein gets straight to the point: if gratitude isn’t spoken, it’s like it doesn’t exist. You could be overflowing with appreciation, but if you keep it all inside, it doesn’t benefit anyone. Think of gratitude as ice cream – it’s meant to be shared. If you keep it all for yourself, it just melts away, and no one gets to enjoy it. So share that appreciation before it disappears.
-
“Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.” – Marcel Proust
We all have those people in our lives who just make everything better. They’re the ones who cheer us on, make us laugh, and make the tough days a little easier. Proust calls them “charming gardeners,” and honestly, who wouldn’t want someone tending to their soul garden? Let’s make sure to appreciate those gardeners because they’re the reason we’re able to blossom – even when life feels like a desert.
-
“Appreciation is a currency that can be minted at any time, and spent without fear of bankruptcy.” – Fred De Witt Van Amburgh
Here’s the great thing about appreciation – it’s free. You don’t need to save it up for a special occasion, and you definitely don’t need to worry about running out. Go ahead and “mint” as much as you like. It’s the kind of currency that, instead of losing value, only grows the more you use it.
So, why not spend a little more of it each day?
-
“No duty is more urgent than giving thanks.” – James Allen
James Allen knew that giving thanks is one of the most important things we can do. It’s easy to get caught up in our busy lives and forget to express our appreciation. But if we make it a priority – if we recognize it as urgent – it can transform our relationships and our own outlook on life. So, let’s take a moment to thank those around us – because it’s truly one of the most rewarding duties we have.
As a Man Thinketh
The Power of Thought in Shaping One's LifeJames Allen Mindfulness 1903
Available in: | |
Wrapping Up: Let’s Spread the Appreciation!
In a world that sometimes feels rushed, chaotic, and a little bit overwhelming, appreciation is the glue that holds everything together. It’s what brings people closer, lifts spirits, and creates lasting connections. Whether it’s recognizing a big achievement or simply thanking someone for being there, showing appreciation is never wasted.
So, let’s all take a moment to appreciate the people who make our lives better, the simple joys that brighten our days, and, heck, even ourselves. We’re all in this together, and a little bit of appreciation can go a long way in making the journey that much sweeter.
Speaking of making life better, have you heard about the Wizdom app?
The Wizdom app is here to help you show a little self-appreciation by making personal growth simple and accessible. With bite-size summaries of the best self-help books, you can keep learning, growing, and becoming the best version of yourself – all without overwhelming your busy schedule. If you’re looking for an easy way to invest in yourself, download Wizdom today and start appreciating your journey, one insight at a time.
Zia Hawwa
Currently pursuing a Degree in Criminology, Zia’s passions lie in the world of literature and the human psyche. She loves what the world has to offer, and is always on the journey of satisfying her curiosity.
Recent Posts
- 25 Top Quotes from The 10X Rule to Supercharge Your Ambition
- 10 Books You Must Read to Succeed in Your Career
- 30 Little Tricks for Big Success in Relationships
- 25 Life-Changing Self-Help Books to Read This December: Boost Your Mood and Your Mind
- 25 Amazing Self-Care Tips for December: Wrap Yourself in Joy, Not Stress