Remember, back in first or second grade, when Valentine’s Day meant your parents would buy you a package of inexpensive V-Day cards to distribute to all the classmates whose names you could remember (even Richard, the bully, who made your life miserable)?

The idea was a good one. Our parents and teachers were trying to encourage us to tell our friends how much we appreciate them. Unfortunately, the cards became a popularity contest – the boy or girl with the most cards won – so, as not to hurt the feelings of those shy ones and the new kid in town, like me, who only received a few cards, in a lot of schools the practice fell out of favor.

That’s a shame. Letting people know you appreciate them is always a good idea.

No one lives in isolation. Like me, you’ve had people help you along the way – whether it’s a neighbor who lends a hand to get you moved into a new place, a friend who was there for you when you were feeling low, a colleague who gave you some great advice, someone who offered a chance when no one else would, or all those clients who made you who you are.

In our business lives, relationships are the magic ingredient that takes us to the next level. Our connections with people create a network that is ever expanding...if relationships are nurtured and cared for, there’s no telling what tomorrow will bring.

I recall an example in my life that made all the difference. I was managing a construction company as a minority partner. I was the face and voice of the business, and was constantly reaching out to our clients and making sure their needs were answered. When I left to start a new company, I reached out again to see if some of my former clients might help in my new venture. I was amazed! Many didn’t distinguish between my former company and me – in their minds, I was my former company. So, when I asked for their business, they had one question: How much work can you handle?

That’s when it truly dawned on me about the value of relationships and keeping connected with friends, business associates, clients, vendors, employees, employers, and anyone who has made a difference in our lives.

Who do you know who’s been important in your life? I bet it would take more than a few moments to make a complete list of those relationships. But do it anyway.

With Valentine’s Day approaching, this may be the best time of the year to show a little love to those relationships. All it takes is a short email, a handwritten note or a friendly text to each of them. For example:

Email

SUBJECT: Thinking of You Today

Hi Bob,

Do you remember our last conversation? I do. Chatting with you is always memorable.

That’s why I want you to know how grateful I am to know you and say, thanks for being you, Bob. Let’s connect again soon.

Best wishes,

Dan

Personal note

Diane,

How have you been? Life is busy and it's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind. That said, you're worth pushing pause for, and I hope we'll be able to get together soon.

Dan

Text

Hey Chris, Just thinking about you. How are things?

It doesn’t take very long to write and send a message of thanks to help keep those relationships strong and vital. 

And soon, on Valentines Day, I’m going to be hosting a webinar that's a master class in showing the love to your clients. If you're already a member of Happy Grasshopper, you'll be getting an invitation soon. If you're not, use the chatbot on this page to schedule a personalized tour.