"Poor communication skills can
condemn you to a life of mediocrity and
frustration. Good communication skills
can unlock your dreams of success."
Dr. Robert A. Tracz

The Power of Praise

Give and you shall receive… and certainly this is the case with relationships. In fact people are your greatest source of happiness… and of stress.

Success and happiness are related directly to the quality of your relationships.

Certainly you've noticed people either give or take energy from you. You know what I mean… some encourage you, build you up and energize you; others hold you back, tear you down and suck the life out of you. Master the art of encouraging, building and energizing and you've mastered the art relationships, happiness and success.

One way to master this art is to use praise.

Remember a time when someone praised you for a job well done… a risk you took… an award you received? How did you feel? Was it great? More importantly... how did you feel about that person?

The fact is you like people that make you feel good about yourself.

Be sincere. Praise positive and desirable behaviors… ones you want repeated, and praise desirable efforts and actions. What is recognized and rewarded is repeated. Praise is a powerful motivator, encourager and builder of people.

Consider these benefits:
· You will strengthen your relationships… family, friends, clients and co-workers alike.
· People will seek you and your opinion out.
· You will be perceived as more intelligent, charismatic and promotable.
· You will be recognized as a leader and your sphere of influence will grow.
· People will be more loyal to you.
· You will be happier and more fulfilled
· You will have fewer conflicts and when you do they will be resolved more quickly and easily.
· You will have greater mutual respect and trust for each other.
· You will have fewer encounters with difficult and demanding people.
· Even when others don't return the praise… you will be the bigger and more mature person.
· You will feel better about yourself.

Here's how to give praise:
1. Name.
2. Thank you
3. Acknowledge the action and how it has helped
4. Appreciation

Example: Bob, I want to thank you for your email tips, they help me focus on how important it is to be in control when everyone and everything else seem out of control. I appreciate your weekly encouragement.

Praise at least two people a day... if not for them then for you!