Long ago Quote by Ed Catmull
““We had learned long ago that while everyone appreciates cash bonuses, they value something else almost as much: being looked in the eye by someone they respect and told, “Thank you.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Pixar Leadership Talk, 2013
People value sincere acknowledgment more than monetary rewards; genuine gratitude builds respect and motivation.
In simple terms: Thank you matters more than cash.
Key Takeaway
Give sincere thanks to boost morale.
Themes
recognition
gratitude
motivation
Mood
appreciative
encouraging
Type
leadership
inspirational
When to use this quote
- Team meetings
- performance reviews
- client interactions
Key Concepts
Psychology of reward
leadership
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you felt more valued by a thank you than a bonus?
- How can leaders balance cash incentives with personal acknowledgment?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on cash can undermine intrinsic motivation.
