“I have yet to find the man, however exalted his station, who did not do better work and put forth greater effort under a spirit of approval than under a spirit of criticism.” – Charles Schwab

Is this true for you? Ask yourself, "do I work better for a critical boss or for someone who appreciates what I do?" Most likely you'll answer in the affirmative as well. People just do a better job, get along with co-workers better, and it makes for a better workplace when we hear words of affirmation rather than words of criticism.

Of course, I can hear some now saying, "But positive criticism can be a good thing." Yes, it can. So why not turn it into an affirmation rather than a criticism?

The old folk saying went something like this, "you catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar." I guess that comes from the dairy farms or feed lots where there are LOTS of flies!

So why not try it today? Right now - affirm someone, praise an employee or co-worker, send an email or hand-written note to someone to encourage them. If it's been a long time since you last did this you'll really surprise them.

Good for you!

Let me know how it works out.