We’ve talked recently about how appreciating others makes you a better leader.
Being able to receive appreciation from others is equally important for a leader.
Here’s what you need to remember when someone is offering you a compliment or their sincere appreciation:
- Stand strong in the conversation
- Avoid any false humility that urges you to deflect.
- Hear the words and the underlying emotion.
- Accept it.
- Say “thank you” without debate or justification.
Simply by saying “Thank you ” you are taking a step towards an acceptance of your inner genius. There is no need for quid pro quo here. Simply receive.
The Zulu people of southern Africa have a beautiful greeting that conveys appreciation for one another. As other cultures might say, “How are you?” the Zulu says, “Sawubona.”
Simply translated, Sawubona means “I value you; I respect you; I see you and you are important to me.” That is an incredible articulation of deep appreciation for others.
A sincere expression of appreciation is needed now more than ever. Our fast-paced, results-driven, technologically-motivated workforces can become dehumanizing. Appreciation restores the human connection. People need other people. Connected people who feel appreciated and involved create good outcomes. Sawubona. The world needs your appreciation right now. We’ve got some work to do on this planet and it won’t happen quite so easily without appreciation.
This article is adapted from my book, The Humanized Leader. You can grab your own copy here. I also invite you to download two free chapters here.
