Greg hopped aboard The Hummingbird Pub Bus that has been my summer gig on Galiano Island, one of the Gulf Islands off the coast of British Columbia.  Like many visitors to the island, he had sailed into Montague Harbour and was off to the pub for dinner and a pint. He had a fun ride and we got chatting. He bought a copy of my book Bus Tales: How to Change the World from 9 to 5 and a few weeks later he contacted me with some great feedback.

Greg had been on a very full flight to Chicago and was reading the chapter in my book that outlines the 7 steps to the Art of Acknowledgement and decided to put it into practice. In case you’re not aware of the steps, here they are:

The 7 Steps to the Art of Acknowledgement:

1. Be aware of other people – they ache to be seen

2. Notice something nice or unique about them

3. Tell them cleanly what it was that you noticed

4. Use sweet words in all that you say

5. Have no expectations about how your words are received

6. Be playful, but respectful

7. Smile inwardly and silently acknowledge yourself for having made a positive difference in sending another ripple of kindness out into the world

The flight attendants were busy serving beverages and snacks and he couldn’t help noticing that one of the attendants looked as though she would rather be anywhere than on that plane. Her manner was reserved and sad. (Step 1 –  Be aware of other people – they ache to be seen). Greg, seated on the aisle, noticed her unusual watch as she reached across to serve his neighbor. (Step 2 – Notice something nice or unique about them). “What an interesting watch you’re wearing.” (Step 3 – Tell them cleanly what it was that you noticed).

“Why thank you,” she responded brightly, “My fiancé bought it for me. I think of him whenever I look at it. Thanks for noticing.” Her mood visibly changed and she delivered drinks and snacks to Greg’s row with a big smile and went on to serve the next rows in much changed state.

When deplaning the flight attendant beamed at Greg saying, “Thanks again for noticing my watch.”

Such a simple thing that changed two people’s day. Oh, and one last thing Greg: Step 7 – Smile inwardly and silently acknowledge yourself for having made a positive difference in sending another ripple of kindness out into the world.

Give it a try…and let me know your experience.