But it should never come off feeling gratuitous by those who are being shown your gratitude. My number one rule has always been this: make it authentic genuine, and sustainable.

We used to do things like bring pizzas to different departments and also gave away gift cards, movie passes, etc. Those special times were always very much appreciated, as it was a fun way to let off steam, particularly after a demanding group left the hotel. It’s like being back in school – anything that is a break from the doldrums of everyday tasks or schedules is embraced by many and seen as a good thing. Those type of “breaks in the action” to show gratitude are important for team camaraderie and strengthening the bonds between fellow employees who come through for you in some way every day. Too often their deeds are taken for granted.

But there is a very important additional element to all of this high-fiving and pizza, cakes and celebrating together. It’s called sustaining those warm & fuzzies all year long.

Many fellow staffers love the celebrations, and I’m not suggesting you cut those out. But what they really appreciate on a deeper level is a more sustained, constant dose of empathy, understanding, and spirit of cooperation for 52 weeks a year; day in and day out, through the easy days and the rough days. The recommendation here is to show “in the moment” reinforcement and gratitude when it happens or when you see it, when there is no big show to be made. That awareness of those people will pay off in gold. Those little moments, done with consistency, mean more to most than the once-a-year office celebration.