Aarti
The negative is far more easily noticed by me than the positive. Keeping things tidy is also important to me. Therefore, I find it far more convenient to dwell on the other portions that remain unfinished rather than to look on the bright side and appreciate the excellent things that have been accomplished, even when our children have improved a portion of the house.
I seem to find things to criticize more frequently than I do things to commend. On the other hand, I’ve realized that my family can feel deflated by my comments, but encouraged and uplifted by my compliments. Praise is a powerful tool, and I am continually reminded of this. “The power of the tongue is both a curse and a blessing: those who love it will eat its fruit,” goes the proverb. What we say has consequences, and we will reap those consequences. Three of the benefits of praising are as follows.
1. Praise is powerful.
Words have the power to uplift and inspire those closest to us every day, or they can bring them down with needless criticism. What we say has great influence. Whenever I make a point to compliment my children, they light up with joy. I mean, come on, who wouldn’t want to use their words to lift up their family? At our All Pro Dad chapter meetings, during the pride exercise, is a great time to do this. Locate an existing chapter or find out how to start one in your area.
2. Praise is positive.
Every day, our families encounter more than enough negativity in our environment. Praise from loved ones at home is a breath of fresh air. When we look on the bright side and tell our children how proud we are of them, they will know that we are supporting them. “Home is where I want to be, and where I belong.” Our children learn this lesson through praise. Everyone loves me just the way I am, flaws and all, in a praise-filled home.
3. Praise is productive.
Whatever you focus on expanding, more of it will come your way. My kids are more likely to repeat an action when they see that I am pleased with them and make an effort to compliment them.
One of our kids wants nothing more than to hear compliments, and when we shower him with them, he goes out of his way to do even better. Saying “what you want to see” is a great principle. Realizing that we have seen what we desire will lead to more of the same.
