Expressing thanks is a powerful tool for inspiration and motivation. It tells people that we care about them and the difference they’re making. In my June 19 post I gave five tips on how to say an impactful “thank you” using the catchy acronym SAIL (Specific Event, Action Taken, Impact, Link to Higher Goal). I received excellent comments from readers, including some who mentioned the versatility of these principles in all walks of life – personal, professional etc.

To illustrate their point and inspire you to apply these “SAILing tips” I’ve added more “before & after” examples. Here they are:

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Thanks…Thanks for everything…Thanks so much for all you’ve done. Great job. Blah, blah, blah…”

Have you ever said that to someone, or had it said to you? It can feel superficial and hollow, don’t you think? For people on the “receiving end” it can even be somewhat insulting – “like…really…the person thanking me doesn’t have a clue what I’ve done or how much effort it took to make it happen.” For people trying to express gratitude, they often wish they could really say something that would be more meaningful and less generic (“blah”).

So how do you express meaningful gratefulness…the kind that doesn’t backfire? Bonuses?…gift cards?…pay raises? While these aren’t bad ideas, they’re mostly over-rated and are no substitute for the power of a heartfelt “THANK YOU.” One of my great mentors, Fred Bolivar (one of the best facilitators I know), gave leaders the following simple and easy-to-remember guidance using the acronym SAIL:

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These periodic “blog quotes” are intended to give your brain the necessary jolt (and excuse) to “jump the tracks,” challenge what you’re doing and find better ways to make great things happen.

People often say that motivation doesn’t last. 
Well, neither does bathing – that’s why we recommend it daily.
– Zig Ziglar (bio)

1. Have you “run out of steam” on certain goals you’ve set? Which ones? Need a bath?
2. What are things that typically  ignite your passion and interest (ex. literature, events, thought processes, etc.)?
3. What specific actions will you take to make motivation a daily habit?

Be inspired, take action, help others by sharing…

Picture: www.cleveland.com