4 Keys to Recognition

Mario Fernandez said it best, “The Human spirit is nurtured by praise, as much as a seedling is nurtured by the soil, the water, and the sun.”

Imagine playing in a football game , packed to the rafters full of fans. The game starts and kick off happens, you are standing on the 2 yard. Line to receive the kick as the ball floats through the air. You catch the ball and your blockers are in front of you, you dodge one tackle then another, cut to your left and then sprint 98 yards. As you reach the goal line you dive into the end zone to make a statement. Just as you begin your celebration, you expect to hear the crowd roar and your teammates to surround you, but all you get is nothing. No crowd cheering, and as you watch your teammates they have casually walked to the sideline as if you did something wrong or nothing at all. 


4 Keys of Recognition:

1. Make Recognition Authentic-

There is a fine line between too much recognition and not enough recognition. The seedling if given too much water will drown out, and too much sun will burn out. Follow your instinct as to how much and when you should give recognition. In the beginning more recognition is needed as the person grows , less is needed as they mature.

2. Make Recognition Personable-


The details of the cause for recognition is a connection to the heart, it means that you care. Being married almost 19 years, I know better to not just tell my wife she looks great, I must be specific or else! (Hahaha) Remember to be specific.

3. Make Recognition Public-

If at all possible, give recognition in public in front of others. People value being validated and made credible to others. Don’t make it awkward, just be sincere!

 
4. The Twist: Recognize yourself

Its possible to forget about the most important person to you and that is yourself. It is never wrong to recognize the good you do and the good in you on a consistent basis. Many times it takes others to help us turn this dial , but it is ultimately up to you to verbalize your recognition to yourself. Find the good, the truth of who you are , embrace all that cool things you have done and continue to do and pat yourself on the back. 

“A kind word is worth its weight in gold and will outlast the moment it is given.”- Milton Herring

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