So Reader, here in the US where I live, we're about to celebrate Thanksgiving. It's a lovely holiday, kickstarting an entire season of gratitude and appreciation. ❤️

Now, if you've been with me for a while (or you read my most recent note to you), you know that I believe accelerating appreciation is a superpower we all have.

But we don't use it enough.

Why? After talking to a few clients this week about it, I realized that we might be missing the point.

Stay with me for a sec.

In my work as a coach for leaders of leaders, I have the privilege of peeking inside the brains of some of the smartest people and teams you'll ever meet. (Metaphorically speaking, of course--real brain peeking would be gross).

And here’s what I see over and over: even the smartest, most confident folks walk around wondering, “Does any of this matter? Am I getting this right? What do they think of me?”

When people don’t know where they stand, their big beautiful brains fill the gap with doubt.

Doubt creates hesitation, fear, worry.

And no one needs more of that.

Appreciation creates clarity.

Clarity helps us take control.

So when you say, “I appreciated how you handled that conversation—especially the way you paused and refocused the team,” you’re not sprinkling niceness around like confetti.

You’re sending a clear signal: That. Do more of THAT.

Suddenly, they know what “good” looks like. They repeat it. They build on it, 'cause the brain LOVES clarity.

So how about you? Where might a little more appreciation go a long way? Hit REPLY and tell me about it. I read every note you send and respond to 99.87% of them (#science).

Just in case it's not clear, I appreciate YOU, Reader, for being here with me this week and every week you can.

I'm grateful to all who've forwarded this email to a friend or family member who needs a little boost.

And of course, I'm thankful to all who've hired me to coach or speak (that work allows this work to arrive in your inbox always free.)

Happy Thanksgiving to all who celebrate, and here's to more appreciation all around as you continue to soar.

Always, Darcy

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P.S. Not sure how to get started in accelerating appreciation? You'll find scripts here and here. Plus, Chapter 10 of my book, "Red Cape Rescue: Save Your Career Without Leaving Your Job" digs into this important strategy in more depth. Get it from one of these fine booksellers here, including Audible (which I narrated myself.) Thanks!--D