ac·knowl·edg·ment
1. Acceptance of the truth or existence of something.
synonyms: acceptance, recognition, admission, concession, confession
2. The action of expressing or displaying gratitude or appreciation for something.
synonyms: thanks, gratitude, appreciation, recognition
3. The action of showing that one has noticed someone or something.
synonyms: greeting, welcome, salutation
4. A letter confirming receipt of something.
synonyms: answer, reply, response
Happy 2014!
Acknowledgement. During this new year, please consider, ponder and focus on this word and its’ meanings. Consider it as you walk the hallways at work, school or in the grocery store. Consider it when you receive an e-mail or a gift. Or when someone does something nice for you.
We are interdependent. Our ability to thrive and survive depends upon each other. Acknowledgement is a way to connect. Don’t forget how important it is for all of us to connect. Each of us wants to be acknowledged. We want to know that we count; that we’re noticed and appreciated.
Don’t ignore my e-mail or text. Or gift I gave you. Acknowledge me. Notice my actions. Don’t avoid eye contact and a simple smile & hello when we’re both out walking or running in the neighborhood. I’m human. You’re human.
Were you ignored as you entered a small store while doing your Christmas shopping? How did that feel? Did it make you want to buy? Customer Service 101: acknowledge the customer.
Students at a school where I was teaching shared with me that at their K-8 school, if you are walking in the hallway and someone is within ten feet, you must look up and smile at the person. If you are within three feet, you must greet the teacher, staff member or fellow student – either by name, if you know it, or with a “hello.” Sounds good to me! Take notes adults.
Wishing you happiness, peace, and plenty of politeness in 2014,
Kelly
Greetings and Happy New Year Kelly.
Thank you for your email, which caused me to stop and think…. once again.
Today I was pondering “adaptation”, which I feel in turn, promotes change and possibly acceptance. Just a thought in an effort to create change amongst my judgmental co-workers.
Blessings to you and yours for a happy and healthy 2014.
Linda, Thank you for making the connection between “acknowledgment” and one of my favorite words: “adaptation.” I’ll have a blog published on that exact word in February. Adaptation not only promotes change and possible acceptance as you so wisely mentioned, it’s vital to connecting with other people. We need to adapt many aspects of our personality, depending on our audience, to forge a successful connection. It’s also a key component to charisma – another one of my favorite words!