It can be lonely at the top of any business, especially a family business. Imagine how hard it is to make business decisions that involve so many of the people near and dear to you. I’ve been on the difficult end of those decisions. Like when Uncle Walsh chose to split my sales territory to make room for another salesperson. I was pissed off, but in hindsight it was the right business decision. I can’t tell you how many family business CEO’s I work with who get little or no thanks from their family. Sure you tell yourself they don’t need it. They are strong, confident, highly paid people. What difference is some thanks going to make and they probably don’t even want it. How about this reason? “I’m not going to say anything after they made that decision I didn’t agree with.” It’s good karma to acknowledge the effort people are making. Lots of people tell me they don’t want or need recognition. I don’t believe them. I believe everyone can benefit from some good old fashioned appreciation. I’m a father. I don’t need any praise or recognition. I’m just doing my job. But I’ll admit it feels nice when someone acknowledges the hard work and sometimes tough decisions. This week make a conscious effort to take the time and thank Dad, Mom, Brother, Uncle, whomever is running the family business. Tell them you appreciate all of their hard work on behalf of the family. Don’t let them brush you aside and tell you that don’t need or want your thanks. See, the thing is, saying thank you is as much for you as it is for them. It’s good for your heart to learn how to say thank you to everyone in your life even if they don’t always do what you want them to do. Learning to look for and articulate appreciation is like any other muscle or skill you try to develop. Receiving appreciation can be a wonderful (and inexpensive gift) you give to others. In this world that often focuses on and thrives on bad news, be someone who focus on and delivers positivity. It will make a difference. Coach
