A Pat on the Back Goes a Long Way

Boy, ain't that the truth!

In recent years, I have made a point to be grateful of things I have and the people that have affected my life in a positive way. They can be the simple things like my stylist giving me a great haircut, or more complex things like asking a mentor to help reconstruct my resume. I am so appreciative of the efforts people make to take time away from their busy lives to help me.

In the past year alone, I have had so many reasons to be grateful. Here are just a few examples:

Friends helping me frame my unfinished basement
Buddies finding time to just hang out and listen when I needed to just release.
My parents giving me a large gift that will live on in our family for years to come
Colleagues and network friends giving me solid advise on how to tackle my goals while I'm in transition.
My wife telling me it's going to be OK, when I times I don't think so
My kids just making me laugh and listening to me when it really matters for them.
Coworkers and team members who go beyond expectations and deliver something that not only helps the company, but helps themselves and builds their confidence.
I could go on and on.....

How do I pay them all back?

I think one way is to remember what they have done for you. When the moment arises, be there for them. If you have a hard time remembering, write it down in a journal. When you get frustrated or your confidence is low, read what people have done for you, and remember you are not alone.

Another way is to succeed beyond the help that was given. Sometimes you just need a little push. But look back and say 'thank you,' and let them know they made a difference. Perhaps that tiny boost grew into something beyond what was expected of yourself.

Now that I'm in the market of looking for the next opportunity as a creative professional. It's more important than ever to thank the people who are helping you get there. They will appreciate it, and it will make them and yourself feel better. That positivity will grow and multiply as long as you express gratitude. Even the littlest things mean so much.

A pat on the back goes a long way.