In a recent Pulse article by Del Gilbert, creator and owner of Accelerating Excellence, he discusses “2 Simple Ways to Help Others Flourish.” What I love most about this article is how simple it is to apply these for greater success. Regardless of where you are on the ladder, affirmation and encouragement leads to a better outcome.
In his article, Gilbert describes affirmation and encouragement as being similar, but with two different primary goals. Affirmation focuses on the past and encouragement focuses on the future.
Affirmation
While there is both positive and negative feedback, affirmation focuses on the positive feedback and is best when specific about individual things.
Examples of Feedback:
Good: “Good job.”
Better: “Good Job on the article today.”
Best: “Good job on the topic choice of your article today. It was well-written and highly applicable to a large group of individuals.”
By specifically addressing what really set the article apart, you are showing interest in their work and building up their confidence for future assignments. A confident employee produces better results!
Encouragement
While affirmation addresses the past, Gilbert writes that encouragement addresses the future. He states that encouragement helps others get out of their comfort zone and “grow closer to their potential.”
My team has encouraged me throughout the years with the various projects I have set out to do. They let me know what sounds like a valuable option and encourage me to pursue it. This encouragement has led me to write two books and start a successful healthcare leadership platform.
While it takes little effort on your part to affirm and encourage, it makes a dramatic difference to the recipient. You never know what influence you may have on a fellow co-worker or employee. Gilbert describes us as “purpose-driven creatures” that desire “meaning beyond ourselves.” People want to be affirmed and encouraged, and by accomplishing this you are allowing yourself to grow, flourish, and truly experience success.
