So Reader, if you're like most of my clients and colleagues, you're probably in the OMG-the-year's-almost-over scramble.

The SVP needs your budget submitted before the 31st--and you're won't have the data until the 15th.

The client wants to squeeze in one more meeting since their business is "slower"—forgetting that yours is not.

Plus, if you're a leader of people, you may have performance reviews or salary & bonus conversations that need to be complete before your people see different $$$ in their direct deposit. 💵

Or maybe you're on deadline to write your OWN self-review (gulp—help is here if that's you).

Adding to the frenzy? We want the people we care about at work to know that we care.

But how do we make space for that? Where's the time? What do we DO????

Well, you don't need to throw a fancy office party or stress over presents that might hit the wrong note—or end up in the Goodwill bin.

You need to accelerate appreciation.

Here's a simple script to do it fast.

✅ First, think of three people who've made an impact on you this year at work. Maybe they pitched in when you needed it without you having to ask. Or maybe they offered a kind word at the perfect time.

✅ Second, set a timer for 7 minutes. A timed sprint helps you get things done and not overthink it—or talk yourself out of it.

✅ Now, email each person with this script (adjust as you like so it sounds like YOU!)

Hey [their name]—with the holidays coming up quickly, I wanted to take a second and say thank you for supporting me this past year.

One thing I appreciate about you is [get specific on WHY, such as "you always encourage me" or "you catch my mistakes without making me feel bad" or "you always get things done when you say you will, and that makes my work a lot easier." ]

I'm looking forward to our continued work together, and hope the new year is a great one for you, your family and friends. Thanks again!

Then sign it however you normally would, and hit SEND.

The 5-⭐️ version of this process is to send this message in a traditional mailed-to-home card. 📫 If you've got a postal address—or if a little googlesleuthing can find it--spend the stamp and send the note.

After all, physical cards stand out—they're saved and savored. 💌 They also demonstrate to others who share your person's household that their person is seen and respected at work.

There's more on this topic in Chapter 10 of my book "Red Cape Rescue: Save Your Career Without Leaving Your Job." Get it here (and if you've read it, please leave a review!)

So Reader, how will YOU make space for appreciation this year? Will you send a note to a few people using the scripts above? Or mail a card or two thanking your workmates for their encouragement and care? Hit REPLY and tell me!

Most of all, THANK YOU for being here with me right now, wherever you are, whenever you're reading this. Know I appreciate your attention and value the things you do in our world—it matters, more than you know. Let's soar!

Always, Darcy

P.S. Want a gift for your team that says "I appreciate you and want you to stay"? Book me for an online or in-person workshop or fireside chat in 2025. It's always my honor to spend time with people that matter to you!!

We can also arrange for paperback, ebook, or even audiobook copies of "Red Cape Rescue: Save Your Career Without Leaving Your Job" at a savings over the online booksellers. Just hit REPLY to this note and we'll set up a chat, or schedule from my speaking page here. ​

P.P.S: I'm in the northern suburbs of Chicago next week leading leadership team meetings, and have a free night on the 19th for a happy hour with friends and colleagues. If you're in the area and free that evening, hit REPLY and I'll send you deets! I appreciate you!--D

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