I have a friend whom I appreciate immensely. She’s business saavy, street smart, thoughtful and confident. (Need I say more?)
I’ve had the chance to work with her closely on the birth activism going on in our community (and state) right now. Among her many talents is her sheer willingness to vocalize her appreciation and regard for not only the work of those around her, but the unique and individual attributes of the individuals.
What I’m saying is: She’s fantastic at noticing and highlighting people’s best selves.
I’d like to think I’m good at noticing people’s fabulousness, but I think the buck stops here. To actually flat out look someone in the eye and tell them that they are awesome and then give details of why you think so? Honestly, I haven’t done that in awhile to anyone besides my children, and after being on the receiving end of such a good feeling compliment I’m looking to fine tune the art of sharing appreciation and authentic regard with those around me.
What about you? Do you find it easy to share your appreciation of others with them?
{ 14 comments… read them below or add one }
such a good reminder. i may as well start here.
hillary, i appreciate your mindfulness. your words – both accepting and inspiring – never fail to provoke thoughtfulness. i look forward to your posts and admire your manner of conveying your heart and soul and life. when i have hundreds of blogs in my reader and no time to read, yours is one of the few i always make time for. your style – in every form – is such an inspiration. i feel such a connection to you through your honesty and although we’ve never officially “met” i rank you among my closest friends.
thank you for being you.
.-= ~Tara´s last blog ..First Two Days At Ironwood =-.
TARA! (sniff sniff) You made me cry!!!!!!!
well, it’s not intentional but i’m told i’m good at making people cry (in a happy way i hope!).
i agree with amber. it’s so much easier for me to say it all in writing. you’ll rarely see me gushy like that in person. ;)
.-= ~Tara´s last blog ..First Two Days At Ironwood =-.
I am working on giving better compliments. I find it easier to do in writing than in person, because I have a tendency to break down sobbing over every little thing. But I think it’s a great practice. So often, we only focus on the negative, and I think we could all use a little more genuine positivity.
And Tara’s right, you are totally fabulous. :)
.-= Amber´s last blog ..Not So Sly =-.
Amber, I swear you always come and give me that switch of perspective I’m missing. I *love* writing gushy emails/letters and it’s waaaay easier for me to express myself in writing. Face to face I start to feel all geeky and red in the cheeks and yeah, definitely start tearing up. lol.
Hi, first time over here from Steadymom.
I do find it easy and people call me “thoughtful” but it’s simply because I’m thinking those things anyway and then open my mouth and it all comes out LOL
I’ll literally walk past someone and say, “I LOVE the way you just spoke to that client. You dealt with that problem so well.” or “Gee, Maddy, you look FABULOUS in that colour”
I just wrote a post on Friday about gift-giving – you may enjoy reading that as I spoke a lot more about thankfulness too, which I think is part of gift etiquette.
.-= Leigh from 123 blog´s last blog ..My success as a mother =-.
Great writing, Hillary! Definitely thought provoking. You are so wise!
.-= Nicki´s last blog ..My First =-.
yes, i find it easy. but i do find myself tearing up sometimes. i think its impt with those we know and complete strangers.
Actually yes. I am a very verbally encouraging person often tell people how much and what I appreciate about them. I am also very honest and upfront with other things which can be difficult at times. That’s my area to work on.
I sense this about you Renee.
The brining up things honestly when it’s difficult is a whole ‘nother blog post ;)
I’m pretty good at giving credit when credit is due. I built myself a very good reputation in my previous mental health job for doing just that. However, giving constructive criticism or telling people my issues with them? Not so good.
You Hillary? Amazing. You instill a sense of peace in your writing. I always come away with a piece of it. For that reason I am always excited when I see you have posted something new. Sometimes I save it for my last read so when I close the computer I can come away with a sense of calm. Thank you!
.-= Melodie´s last blog ..Normal Day =-.
I find it easier to do it in writing – facebook comes really in handy!! I learned early on with the death of my father that it’s so important to express our love and appreciation.
.-= Katherine´s last blog ..Yes, Vaccine Manufacturers SHOULD Be Sued! =-.
I don’t do this often. I think we, as a society, are taught to downplay the accomplishments and general awesomeness of others. But, you’re right — we should share with others what we think makes them so great. Imagine the revolution that’d happen if everyone shared what was positive and good rather than what was negative and small?
.-= Kelly´s last blog ..Green excitement =-.
I don’t do this enough! Words can be so very uplifting!
On a related note, I was thinking the other day about what my “gifts” are – for example, my sister loves to bake for people. We know we are loved b/c she brings us cookies. A friend likes to write letters – she is so good about dropping postcards in the mail.
I really don’t know what I do that makes people smile – it would be a good exercise to figure that out!
.-= Dionna @ Code Name: Mama´s last blog ..Gardening with Little Helpers =-.
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