As Al Capone so famously noted, “You can get more done with a kind word and a gun, then with a gun alone.”
I think the words are important, preferably with some feeling behind them. They make such a difference.
As both of my dear grandfathers knew, there are many forms of motivation and gratitude. Their most effective rewards to me involved a combination of things, a kind word, a little bit of sweet food, a bit of gelt, a bit of praise and a kiss, or a pat on the head (when appropriate).