Share Your Praise & Why It Matters ✍️
This weekend, something simple yet profound happened to me. A photo I shared online was featured in the blog post of Davey Craney, accompanied by a few kind words about my work. Lately, I’ve been feeling a bit down, but that unexpected recognition really made my day and pulled me out of the slump I was in. It reminded me how rare and meaningful it is to receive heartfelt recognition.
Too often, we scroll through posts, photos, or messages and instinctively hit the "like" button. It’s easy, it’s quick, and it’s a way to acknowledge something without much effort. But here’s the thing: while likes are nice, they don’t carry the same weight as genuine words of praise. Taking the time to express your appreciation—whether through a thoughtful comment, a direct message, or an email—can make a far greater impact than we realize.
I’ll admit, I’m guilty of the same. I’ve admired beautiful creations, inspiring stories, and clever ideas, and simply clicked like before moving on. But that experience this weekend made me pause. How often do we take the time to genuinely appreciate the effort and thought someone has put into their work? How often do we let them know?
Everyone thrives on encouragement. Whether it’s a friend posting a photo they’re proud of, a colleague sharing an achievement, or a stranger displaying their art, your words of praise can create a ripple effect of positivity. It’s a small act with a big impact.
Imagine creating something you’re proud of—a piece of art, a blog post, or even a heartfelt message—and sharing it with the world. It takes vulnerability to put yourself out there. When someone acknowledges your effort with kind and specific words, it doesn’t just validate your work; it encourages you to keep going. A like can’t do that. Words can.
So here’s my challenge—to myself and to you: let’s go beyond the like. Let’s take a moment to share our praise honestly and thoughtfully. Write a comment, send a message, or share their work with your own words of admiration. It doesn’t have to be elaborate; it just has to be sincere.
You never know how much your words might mean to someone. They could brighten their day, restore their confidence, or inspire them to create even more. That’s the power of taking a moment to truly connect.
Let’s start today.
Find something or someone that inspires you, and let them know. Share your praise, because it matters more than you think.
And for those of you writing online, please include some ways to contact you. Often I found something inspiring or touching yet I could not notify the author about the impact her or his piece had on me.
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