People like to be seen. This is exhibited in all areas of life. It is for this reason YouTubers ask their viewers to “like, share and subscribe” to their content. The photography market is now oversaturated because people love to have their portraits taken. Even our mobile devices have multiple cameras. Whether the motives for engaging in particular tasks may be authentic or selfish, people like to be appreciated for their efforts, no matter how small they may be.

Appreciation builds our self esteem, our egos and confidence. It gives us the boost and the drive to keep on going, even if the tasks are difficult to accomplish. There are occasions, however, where one’s genuine efforts are disregarded. We may work extremely hard with the team on a project, but someone else gets the credit because they have more clout or influence. We work hard and long, but efforts remain thankless. The tasks may even seem menial in the eyes of many, and may not be seen as significant. Some may even see our work, but will not acknowledge it because we are the ones who executed it so well. 

In these moments, we may feel unvalued or undervalued. We may also feel unmotivated and discouraged. We may feel unwilling to take on any work or project of that nature ever again. Sometimes we believe that because our work is rejected, we too are rejected. Our egos get bruised. It stings way more than we ever bargained for. Rejection never feels good, especially from those you expect to “have your back at all times”. 

We hurt because our expectations are quickly transformed into disappointments. We expect to be applauded and appreciated but we are meted out with the complete opposite. That explains why we feel downcast. All our efforts seem to be in vain. We will be meted out with disappointments and rejection because that is a part of life. It is a sad, but hard truth we must swallow. 

In those moments, we need to ask ourselves a fundamental question: “Why am I doing this?” 

If the response hinges on seeking someone else’s approval, we are at risk of subjecting our self-worth to mortals. We will give persons the licence to dictate our moods and behaviours without being conscious of it. When we live for the applause and approval of others, their rejection will hit harder than a ton of bricks. We will always be seeking to have our egos stroked by people who are just as flawed as we are. People will always be people.

Rather, we must seek to honour God and conscience. Whatever task we have to do, no matter how small, should be done so well. Let these things point to your character and your work ethic. Let them speak for you even when voices of appreciation are silent. Applaud yourself. Value your work and efforts, working as for the Lord. Don’t wait on others to say thanks. Pat yourself on the back for a job well done. Eventually, others will follow.

^{Photo by “Joel” Tucker (IG: @jo_media_)}