Who doesn’t love a ‘pat on the back’ from time to time? We all do. In fact, data says that we ‘need’ it. Being acknowledged, getting approval, getting the nod for doing something good that might have a significant impact on the people you are connected to is a great way to see your value. Doesn’t matter if it’s on the playing field, the playground, the classroom, in the office, the park, your local pub – Wherever you engage with people, you are exposed and people take note of you, your actions, your behavior. Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It offers a considerable reward. We all like to score ‘brownie points’. They are necessary. Being recognized helps our self-esteem. Being appreciated fosters growth. Recognition represents support and approval. I admire any partner, colleague, friend, leader that pays attention and offers the ‘pat on the back’. For some, we see it within ourselves, and we give ourselves a ‘pat on the back’. Hey, if you did good, then take a bow. Don’t be arrogant, don’t let your ego get in the way, but be humble. Because there is another side to all of this. As some deserve the earned ‘nod’, you can also display the swagger, the conceit, the ego, then maybe you deserve a kick in the ass. So, be mindful because RECOGNITION can make you a winner or a loser.
