August 2025 GOOD News Praise people , raise people

Praise People, Raise People

Have you ever noticed that someone’s entire demeanor can be transformed when they’re recognized for doing something well? A simple “Great job,” “Thank you,” or “I’m proud of you” can light up a person’s soul. I believe that when you praise people, you raise people—and that’s something we should strive to do every single day.

Whether you’re a business owner, a colleague, a friend, or a stranger in line at the coffee shop, you have the power to lift someone’s spirit. Words of encouragement don’t cost anything, yet their value is priceless. It doesn’t take much time or effort to tell someone they’re doing a great job or that they made a positive impact, yet the effects of praise can linger for a lifetime. Why? Because praise tells people they matter, and we all want to feel like we matter.

We live in a world where criticism comes quickly and compliments are often held back. But what if we flipped that script? What if we started being intentional about recognizing the good in others? When we acknowledge effort, attitude, and excellence, we’re not just making people feel good, we’re helping them become even better.

Think about the last time someone praised you. Didn’t it make you want to keep going, do more, and become even better? Praise is the spark that ignites self-worth, motivation, and purpose. And the best part is that it multiplies. When you lift people’s spirits, they tend to do the same for those around them.

Praising others is very important to me because I know the impact that it makes. Years ago, I decided to find something good to say about everybody I talked to. Over time, praise became a habit, and then before I knew it, it came naturally to me. Now I don’t even have to think about it… when I see people I just automatically say something that will brighten their day or make them feel better about themselves. And in the end, their reaction makes me feel good about myself as well.

So here’s my challenge to you this week: Each day, find at least one person to praise. Be sincere, be specific, and be present. Let someone know that they’re seen, appreciated, and valued.

When you’re walking down the hall at your workplace, instead of looking at the carpet or checking your phone, make eye contact with the person coming toward you and smile or at least say hello. What if that’s the only nice thing that happens to them all day, and you are responsible for it? Wouldn’t that make you feel like you made a difference in that person’s life?

There is no down side to building people up, because when we praise people, we raise people.

And when we raise people, we raise the world.