In the fast-paced world we live in, it’s often the little things that help make all the difference—like a colleague’s extra effort, a team member’s quiet dedication, or someone who’s just doing their job well—that get overlooked. But what difference would it make if we took a moment to just say “thank you,” not in a formal way but from the heart?

I’ve worked in a variety of organizations and seen firsthand the difference a culture of appreciation can make to any organization. My experience working with diverse industries and teams has taught me that appreciation is not just a nice-to-have, it’s a necessity.

Where there’s no appreciation and the culture is toxic, employees often become disengaged and disinterested. They only do the necessary work, avoid extra effort, and often think about leaving the organization too soon. In such organizations, turnover rates are high, morale is low, and even talented people get discouraged.

In contrast, where recognition is part of a culture — not just through formal awards but through small, consistent, everyday behaviors — I’ve seen a different climate. Employees there are more enthusiastic, motivated, and committed to the team’s success. A simple “You did a great job” or “Thank you” creates a positive energy.

Praise is not just a nice touch; it’s a powerful tool that improves motivation, relationships, and performance. When people feel recognized, they work harder, take on new responsibilities, and aren’t afraid to go the extra mile.

Think about when was the last time someone praised your work? Didn’t your mood improve? Didn’t you set out to do even better? That’s the magic of praise — it’s uplifting, energizing, and creates a happy atmosphere.

But praise shouldn’t be limited to annual awards or special occasions. It doesn’t require a big ceremony or a bonus. It should be part of our daily conversations — a culture we foster. A simple “great job” after a meeting or acknowledging someone’s consistency can make a big difference.

Let’s move beyond the mindset that praise is reserved for big achievements. Small accomplishments, quiet efforts, and consistent performance deserve praise too. When praise becomes a habit, not an occasional act, we build teams that feel valued, empowered, and influential.

So take a moment today. Look around. Say “thank you” — and mean it. You never know how much it might mean to someone.