In a recent LinkedIn post, Stacy Sherman challenges traditional New Year’s resolutions, urging professionals to prioritize how they make others feel over typical metrics like revenue or productivity. Sherman proposes a different kind of goal for the year ahead: becoming a person who is remembered for the positive emotional impact they have on others.
Focusing on Emotional Impact Over Metrics
Sherman suggests that true impact lies not in material possessions or professional titles, but in fostering genuine human connection. The post lists several key feelings Sherman believes people should aim to evoke in others, including being:
- Supported
- Respected
- Understood
- Welcomed
- Cared for
- Safe
- Encouraged
- Heard
- Included
As Sherman pointedly states:
“They don’t care about your salary, job title, designer clothes, social media likes, expensive gifts….”
This perspective shifts the focus from external validation and status symbols to the intrinsic value of positive interpersonal interactions. Sherman argues that these emotional connections are far more enduring and meaningful than fleeting professional or material achievements.
A Practical Call to Action
To put this philosophy into practice, Sherman provides a concrete action step for the New Year. The post encourages readers to identify one person—whether a customer, employee, partner, friend, or family member—and send them a specific message of appreciation.
The suggested message format is:
“I appreciate you for ___. It helped me because ___.” (Be specific)
Sherman emphasizes the importance of authenticity and personal sentiment in this exercise, cautioning against the use of artificial intelligence:
“Write from YOUR heart, not AI🤖”
This directive underscores the core message of the post: that genuine, heartfelt communication is paramount in building memorable relationships. By encouraging specific, personalized expressions of gratitude, Sherman aims to foster a culture of appreciation and positive reinforcement in both professional and personal spheres.
The Lasting Power of Human Connection
Sherman’s insights, shared on LinkedIn, highlight the enduring importance of emotional intelligence and empathy in an increasingly digital and often impersonal world. The emphasis on making others feel valued and understood, as Sherman notes, is a powerful differentiator.
“It’s Jan 1. Many people set goals for revenue, fitness & productivity. Here’s a different one: Be the person people remember for how you made them feel.”
Ultimately, Stacy Sherman’s post serves as a timely reminder that while business objectives are important, the human element—how we treat and make others feel—is what truly defines our legacy and fosters lasting success. The call to action to spread happiness through genuine appreciation is presented as a more fulfilling and impactful New Year’s resolution.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Stacy Sherman on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on January 1, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →