Appreciation — Meaning, Definition, and How This Core Value Shapes Your Life
What Is Appreciation as a Core Value?
Appreciation is the practice of noticing and valuing what’s good — people, efforts, and moments. Those who value Appreciation elevate morale and strengthen relationships.
Why Appreciation Matters
Honoring Appreciation helps you:
- build strong, trusting teams and relationships,
- reinforce positive behaviors,
- reduce negativity bias,
- experience more daily joy and meaning.
How Appreciation Shows Up (High vs. Low Expression)
High Expression
- gives specific, timely recognition,
- celebrates progress, not just outcomes,
- expresses gratitude consistently,
- spots the “good” even in setbacks.
Low Expression
- overlooks wins and efforts,
- focuses mainly on problems,
- withholds praise to drive performance,
- assumes gratitude is implied.
Common Challenges of High Appreciation
- being seen as “soft” or lenient,
- under-emphasizing hard feedback,
- praise that loses impact if overused,
- avoiding conflict to “keep it positive.”
Appreciation in Conflict With Other Values
Appreciation vs. Challenge
Challenge raises pressure and pushes the next summit; Appreciation pauses to acknowledge what’s already working.
Tension: relentless ascent vs. reflective gratitude.
Appreciation vs. Fame
Fame pursues external recognition and visibility; Appreciation honors quiet effort and intrinsic contribution.
Tension: public spotlight vs. sincere acknowledgment.
Examples of Appreciation in Daily Life
- Writing a quick thank-you note after help.
- Starting meetings with wins.
- Acknowledging invisible labor at home or work.
- Practicing a daily gratitude list.