The opposite of a letdown is the lift-up.

As a coach, a teacher, or a parent, we sometimes create an expectation. People agree to be part of something, to live up to a set of guidelines.

Then, we live our lives. We traverse busy days. 

Just getting through the day can seem like an odyssey. For many of us on any given day.

Finally, there is a moment where I realize that something is working.

People have followed through on their agreements. My son takes his plate and cup to the sink after dinner before he sits down with his LEGOs. Without my asking.

My swim team shows up at the end of a solid week of training and college academics. Like they said they would. Because this is what we do. Morning comes early as it does for every Saturday practice. Still they got out of bed, walked down the wooded hill, and jumped in our pool.

Like they said they would.

Consistent effort and consistent follow-through reign supreme. Far better than flash-in-the-pan brilliance or temporary laser focus.

Living up to one’s word might not deserve a party. Maybe no cupcakes or commemorative plaques. 

But, a thank you? 

Certainly.

A world with a little more gratitude sounds like a good place to live. Feeling let down is a bummer. So, why not appreciate the moments when the opposite is taking place?

If we give people challenges they live up to, the result is uplifting. If I am not let down—and I am aware enough to notice—then I am uplifted.

While living up to our commitments might serve as the status quo, this is seldom the case. Letting oneself off the hook is practically a national pastime. Reliable follow-through becomes something greater than neutral. It is noteworthy because we see that doing what one says is actually a lot more than the bare minimum in a world of new lows.

It deserves a pat on the back.

It deserves a heartfelt and reinforcing thank you.