In 2005, at the beginning of my career, I underwent a two-week behavioral training program that was meticulously planned and executed. To this day, I remember and apply most of the valuable lessons I learned during that training. However, there was one particular session that left an indelible mark on me, and I can recall it with great clarity.
During this session, our trainer stressed the importance of not taking things, particularly the people around us, for granted. He then instructed us to call our parents and express our gratitude for all they had done for us. At first, many of us felt awkward and hesitant since most of us had never done this before.
We took a brief break, and everyone dispersed to find a quiet place to make their calls without disturbing others. When we reconvened, we shared our experiences. Most parents were surprised and wondered if something was wrong, but we knew that our expressions of gratitude had made them happy.
The whole exercise was an emotional and left us with memories that are still fresh. It made us realize how a little conscious effort to appreciate people around us can strengthen our relationship. To date, that’s the best thing and learning experience I have had from any training in my 17 years of corporate life.
No matter how selfless our efforts are, deep down in our hearts we all want to know that we are not doing a thankless job.
In both personal and professional life, many times we fail to acknowledge the importance of people around us. They are so much into our life that we forget to appreciate the value these people bring to our lives. This at times translates into multiple problems. Gradually, such people also stop caring about us and become indifferent to us. Finally, it results in withdrawal, lack of engagement, attrition, etc.
Whether it’s your team, colleagues, friends, or family, don’t take them for granted. Express your gratitude. Let them know how important they are and how badly you need them. My experience says, people are always there to help. What they only need to know is – you need them, you truly need them!
So put the ego aside, call for the help you need with an open heart, and do take care of those who are always there for you.
P.S – I would like to express my sincere gratitude to TechMahindra for conducting such nice behavioral training with highly competitive and expert trainers.
Very simple but important message ,which for sure make everyone think let’s do it, thank all important and indeed people around you:) very well done Vikas !!
Nice catch ,sometime we forgot but we should always gratitude for all small things,It feels very nice both side.
Gratitude !
Everyone knows this but you have penned it down so nicely. Now I am also thinking that such aspects should never be sidelined or ignored.
One step covers more than a mile in relationship n one positive move can change the whole thing .
Thanks Vikas 4 sharing such a short experience which means a lot .