I’m convinced a Tell Them Theory would make the world a better place.

Think the waiter was friendly?

Tell them.

Your friend looked good today?

Tell them.

Someone’s work inspired you?

Tell them.

The world is loud with criticism and quiet with appreciation. Be the exception. It could make someone’s day.

Unlike many things in life, appreciation has an expiry date. The best time to offer appreciation is now. And I don’t mean the generic kind. Not “you’re amazing” or “I appreciate you.” I mean the specific kind. Tell them:

• “Your presence calms me when everything feels chaotic.”
• “You make people feel safe to be themselves.”
• “The way you handled that situation taught me something valuable.”
• “Your consistency inspires me. You show up even when it’s inconvenient, and that says a lot about your character and heart.”