on from hierarchy and consumer alike. Workers placate public frustrations with a dedication to conveying a momentous spectacle – all while putting their own family’s festivities on hold. For the majority of these stalwarts, it is a period of long unsociable hours as well as an absence from life’s occasions as friends and relatives revel at the beach, attend parties and relish Yuletide joys. Executives should invest a paltry dollar to share a moment of appreciation with these wonderful selfless folk through patience and indebtedness for their efforts. Many a hidden tear is shed when a leader, support person or client offers a smile or bestows a wish of good cheer. As the season draws to its climax this band of colleagues then summon the strength and goodwill to replicate what most take an age to complete, shopping, prepping and making merry. A short window of merriment before embracing the next onslaught that is the mayhem of post-Christmas. In a world of timelines, deadlines and technology take the time to show thankfulness to those close to you. Not just to say the words, but to mean them with heartfelt praise. There is no greater gift than endeavour acknowledged. It revives mojo and invigorates resolve in anticipation of eliciting further endearment. There is nothing more gratifying than a leader sharing esteem to drive improvement or for family approval to perpetuate steadfastness by maintaining and nurturing. Recognition is an affirmation of belonging, in forging a difference, a meaningful contribution – a legacy if you will. We have an innate ability to determine the delivery of this simple yet powerful phrase – so it can only be conveyed with sincerity. There is no such thing as a small thankyou – perhaps the single most important expression the world over. Gratitude adds meaning to life. Thank you to all of Santa’s accomplices for their allegiance and a special mention to their loved ones for their resilience. Rest up and Merry Christmas to each and every one of you. To the balance, rest assured the very essence of retail continues to be about the people, for the people, by the people. Can we afford it to be any other way? Salutations. Dave Farrell is a retailer and writer with three decades of experience on three continents. He can be reached at Freelance Alliance NZ on  alliance@vodafone.co.nz.