Save your praise

I'm passionate about sharing actionable advice and mentoring to help you figure out what you want from your career – whether you're just starting out or not. I now write regularly about all of this on my blog, which you can subscribe to here.

I share personal experiences – with lessons from my career – as well as honest thoughts on unanswered questions.

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Praise is reassuring.

It's also necessary.

And far too rare.

When it does happen, it shouldn't be for the benefit of the person handing it out so they can feel good about themselves, but it should be completely focused on the person who deserves it.

But this isn't the kind of ego-boosting praise that puts people on pedestals – or makes them think they've completed work/life... it – and don't need to work hard again.

It's something that should make someone feel better about themselves or their work – ideally both – particularly if they struggle with it.

It should also be useful, constructive and relevant.

Praise is needed; regular praise is essential

But the praise that matters most is the type people don't seem to do much with – the little and often.

The seemingly throwaway comment from a colleague that can turn your mood around and make a bad day a great one.

The feedback after you contributed to a meeting, or led one for the first time.

That quick catch-up call or office kitchen chat where you're reassured how well you're doing.

Ultimately, it doesn't really matter how big or small that praise is; what matters more is what it means to you.

If you feel good after it, amazing.

Keep it. Look back on it. Use it.

Repeatedly.

Hit save

Each time you get that praise, don't forget to hit save...

Write it down, add it to your win sheet, tattoo it on your arm... just do something with it!

If you think you'll store this kind of positivity in the back of your mind forever you won't.

Save it... somewhere!

Especially if you're one of those types who constantly questions if you're doing a good job (newsflash... you are!), and regularly faces moments of imposter syndrome.

I promise you it will help!