Praise Project

Whether teaching, coaching, supervising, leading, or befriending, acknowledging the performance of those we observe or interact with is of immense benefit to them and to our relationships with them.

We are presently experiencing a societal epidemic of destructive criticism and personal condemnation, which tears down and destroys people and their good work. We are constantly told what we must not do, but not told enough about what we can do. We are reminded of all of our shortcomings and rarely of our good qualities. We hear so much of the bad and so little of the good. The world is cold and gray, man is wolf to man, and life is nothing other than bleak. In this toxic environment, people are starving for something else.

Part of that something else is praise. People want recognition of their accomplishments, both great and small, and you can give them that recognition. Praise builds people up and encourages them. Praise strengthens our relationships with them. Praise makes people feel worthy and valued. Simply stated, praising the good can increase the good.

We need more words of praise than the old standby, “Good.” Following are a few alternative examples.


-Admirable.
-Awesome!
-Beautiful work.
-Bravo!
-Excellent.
-Exceptional.
-Exemplary.
-Fantastic!
-Fine workmanship.
-First rate.
-Good show.
-Great work.
-Hooray for you!
-I knew you could do it.
-I’m proud of you.
-I’ve got to hand it to you.
-Looking sharp.
-Magnificent.
-Marvelous!
-More than equal to expectations.
-Nicely done.
-Nifty.
-Not bad.
-Outstanding effort.
-Praiseworthy.
-Stellar performance.
-Super job.
-Terrific.
-Thank you.
-You are a valued member of the team.
-You’re the best.
-You did it!
-Way to go!
-We need more like you.
-Well done.
-Wonderful.


Can you think of other words or phrases that are expressions of praise?