A little appreciation goes a long way. These quotes will remind you to celebrate kindness, gratitude, and the people who make life brighter.

Nothing lifts the spirit like a little appreciation. Whether you’re recognizing a colleague, thanking a friend, or just reflecting on gratitude, these quotes capture the power of acknowledgment.

But why does it matter? Isn’t a paycheck or a job well done enough? Studies show recognition boosts morale, strengthens relationships, and even reduces turnover. A simple thank-you can go a long way.

I’ve gathered some of the best appreciation quotes to remind you why gratitude, given or received, is always worth sharing.

The Power of Self-Recognition

“It is up to us to give ourselves recognition. If we wait for it to come from others, we feel resentful when it doesn’t, and when it does, we may well reject it.” –  Spencer Tracy

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” – John F. Kennedy

“The aim of life is appreciation; there is no sense in not appreciating things; and there is no sense in having more of them if you have less appreciation of them.” — Gilbert K. Chesterton

“Don’t worry when you are not recognized but strive to be worthy of recognition.” – Abraham Lincoln

Honor Through Giving, Not Receiving

“No person was ever honored for what he received.  Honor has been the reward for what he gave.” – Calvin Coolidge, Veto of Salary Increase, February 4th, 1916

“The roots of all goodness lie in the soil of appreciation for goodness.” – Dalai Lama

“Make it a habit to tell people, ‘thank you.’ To express your appreciation sincerely and without the expectation of anything in return. Truly appreciate those around you, and you’ll soon find many others around you. Truly appreciate life, and you’ll find that you have more of it.” – Ralph Marston

“The honors and rewards fall to those who show their good qualities in action.” – Aristotle

“When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree.” – Vietnamese Proverb

“Appreciation is the highest form of prayer, for it acknowledges the presence of good wherever you shine the light of your thankful thoughts.” – Alan Cohen

The Role of Recognition in Motivation

“There is no limit to the amount of good you can do if you don’t care who gets the credit.” – Ronald Reagan

“People work for money but go the extra mile for praise, recognition, and rewards.” – Dale Carnegie

“…a little ‘appreciation’ sometimes does quite as much good as all the conscientious ‘bringing up’ in the world.” – L.M. Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables

“Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.” – Mother Teresa

“Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.” – Voltaire

“Appreciation can make a day, even change a life. Your willingness to put it all into words is all that is necessary.” – Margaret Cousins

“Feeling grateful or appreciative of someone or something in your life actually attracts more of the things that you appreciate and value into your life.” – Northrup Christiane

Want to keep the inspiration going? Check out our collections on attitude, presence, gratitude quotes and kindness quotes for more ways to cultivate positivity and appreciation.