The deepest principle in human nature is the craving to be appreciated” (James). To appreciate and be appreciated are foundational for healthy living. Appreciation is most often expressed through words of affirmation and gratitude. Affirmation is first an attitude before it is a verbal exchange or physical gesture. The attitude of appreciation looks for strengths, qualities, and praise-worthy characteristics in people. Recognizing and affirming your personal strengths is very important. Drucker observed, “Most Americans do not know what their strengths are. When you ask them, they look at you with a blank stare, or they respond in terms of subject knowledge, which is the wrong answer” (http://leslindquist.com/tag/discover-your-strengths/). Your personal strengths can be identified, developed, practiced or expressed, and celebrated. Work on identifying your strengths – what makes you unique and extraordinary. Being an extraordinary person is not dependent upon position, rank or someone else’s opinion (Seligman). Identifying and living your strengths allows you to live your life to its full potential.

What are your personal strengths? Check the list below and choose the three or four strengths that resonate with you. Do you sense you have additional personal strengths that are not found on the list offered below? Very well . . . add these strengths to the list under “Other.” Identify, affirm, and celebrate your strengths. Ask your spouse, caregiver, best friend or someone who knows you well to reflect on the list of strengths and check off one or more strengths they identify as being your personal strengths. Your strengths define who you are when you are at your best.

When an individual appreciates something in another individual they declare this appreciative notion through verbal expressions and physical gestures (e.g. touch or embrace). First, consider what it is about you that you appreciate and affirm yourself. Next, consider what you appreciate in others – your caregiver and each member of your family – and take time to affirm them?

“Celebrations infuse life with passion and purpose” (Deal & Key, 1998). Affirming and celebrating your life gives meaning to what might otherwise be overlooked. Celebrations can promote individual as well as community health (Kouzes & Posner, 2003). Identify what is in your life, in the world around you, and in the future that you can celebrate. And celebrate with someone. Celebrate your strengths and all your large and small steps in recovery. Celebrate your first walk, your first road trip, and your first vacation with an LVAD.