“The deepest principle in human nature is the craving to be appreciated.”
— William James
Simplified Meaning:
People really want to feel valued and recognized. It’s natural for everyone to desire appreciation and acknowledgment for who they are and what they do. For example, think about a time at work when you completed a big project. If your boss said, "Great job, we couldn’t have done this without you," that praise probably made you feel good and more motivated. When we show appreciation to others, such as thanking a friend for their help or telling your family you love them, it strengthens relationships and builds happiness. In day-to-day life, showing appreciation can be simple. You can compliment a coworker, thank your parents for their support, or tell your friends what they mean to you. This not only makes others feel good but also creates a positive environment where everyone feels respected and valued. Feeling appreciated is a powerful need for everyone, and recognizing this can help us interact better and foster kindness everywhere we go.