I believe we are often given a choice of how we see the world, the people in our lives, or even ourselves. We can choose to focus on what is wrong, what is not working, or what needs improvement. Or we can appreciate what others are bringing to the interaction, we can appreciate essence qualities in the other, or to appreciate something about ourselves.

I am mindful of Paul's words to the church in Thessalonica. Encourage one another and build each other up. (1 Thess. 5.11) There was such wisdom in his vision of this church as one that encouraged each other in all they did. Encouragement builds community, invites creativity, and creates a track record for working together. Wouldn't we all rather be in an environment that has our back and seeing our best verses one that is looking to gotcha for a misstep?

In our world, most people lead with criticisms, seeing what is wrong. Even constructive criticism is indeed criticism. Psychologists say that for every 1 criticism (in both intimate relationships or work relationships), we need 5 supportive encouragements to be balanced. This applies to ourselves as well. If we find fault in something we do during the day, we need to find 5 areas or qualities we appreciate about ourselves. We live in a work where people are appreciation deprived.

I have an invitation for you to try out. In your work, in your intimate relationships, even with yourself, begin with appreciation. Push pause and breathe with what is an essence quality I appreciate about them (or myself) and share that out loud. See what happens to you and what happens to the other and your exchange.....