img00163.jpg Every Monday I take one of my four children out for breakfast. They all have their own local greasy spoon. In the summer I also like to go and chase little white balls around with them for a few hours.

This past Monday was Bethany’s opportunity to hang with the old man. It was also her first time out golfing with me this year. I was reminded again about the power of praise. As she would connect with the ball and I would shout out “that a girl” she would beam. With each cheer that came from me, her confidence grew and passion ignited.

I am always amazed that a well timed or placed cheer (whether it’s a child of mine, a TJN staff member or a volunteer) can make such a huge difference. One missing component in a lot of families as well (I’ve noticed) as in working environments, is appropriate praise.

The praise that means the most to people always follows an outpour of effort. When, an extra amount of time was spent, a skill deployed or a risk taken, most people benefit from being noticed. Praise, rewards the time, skill or risk with affirmation that encourages the person to the right behaviors or efforts.

So parents, I encourage you to become a student of your children and catch them doing the right things. Employers, a well timed “that a girl” can change your corporate ethos and increase both productivity and your bottom line. Spouses notice the efforts that the other is putting into the relationship and say it out loud.

We can all give this gift of encouragement, it doesn’t cost us a thing, but the rewards can be life changing.