One of the best ways to keep relationships positive, regardless of whether with friends, relatives or business associates or customers is to shoe appreciation. Going out of your way often to tell people how much you appreciate what they have done, regardless of how unimportant or little it might have been, puts you in the minority of the human race. (unfortunately)

Here is a quick example.

Each year I give away between 1000 and 2000 books to relatives, friends, clients and strangers. In the last ten years that’s over 10,000 free books I have given away valued at between $15. And $20. These people have received a gift. Unsolicited yes, but a gift nonetheless. How many people do you think have said thank you in the past ten years? (either calls or notes) Less than 25.

I guarantee someone in your life has done something for you that they feel deserves a simple thank you or some small appreciation. Here are a few tips to consider:

1. Call at least one person a day and thank them for something.

2. Send out 5 thank you notes a week.

3. Don’t wait to show your appreciation. Do it now.

4. Do what you do for others without the expectation of appreciation. When you want something back that is not a gift but barter.

5. Send a special friend a surprise gift. (it doesn’t have to be expensive. It’s the thought that really counts.)

When you are appreciative, it makes other people feel like doing more for you, even though that was not your agenda. When you fail to show appreciation, it makes others feel like doing less or nothing for you.

I guarantee that someone in your life feels a word of appreciation would be in order. Can you guess who it might be? One way to ensure that people do not feel slighted by you is to develop an appreciative consciousness.

What have you got to lose. A simple thank you doesn’t cost anything and it can mean so much to people who have gone out of their way for you.