Acknowledging or Noticing is Different than Just Recognition
Coaching Tip #40
Try something today.
Step back and acknowledge someone. That might be a family member, a colleague, a teacher, a grocery store employee, medical personnel, or even a stranger on the street.
Use the word “acknowledge” or “notice” when you speak to them. It may feel awkward. That’s okay.
I noticed that you worked hard at preparing that yummy meal. I want to thank you.
I would like to acknowledge your contribution to our meeting. You answered my questions really well.
I know being a teacher has a high level of anxiety to it. I just want to acknowledge that you are making such a difference to the kids. They are so glad to be back at school.
I really notice the work you’ve done in the gym. That outfit is stunning on you.
Then sometime later in the day give a compliment or some form of positive feedback to someone else.
You did a great job on that meal. Can you cook that again next week?
Your contribution was great today. You should speak up more often.
The kids are so glad you are back at school. Thank you.
You look amazing in that outfit.
As you try this, see if you notice a different reaction to the two forms of feedback. Also notice how you feel afterwards.
We need more authentic acknowledging these days. More genuine noticing.
I could have easily written a coaching tip on external recognition and told you that, given everyone is a bit more stressed out, make sure you set aside some time today to pause and recognize someone. Don’t get me wrong. Recognition is important, but I want you to experience the difference between acknowledgement and recognition.
When you acknowledge someone, you are talking about the whole person: both the “human being” and the “human doing.” The words you say affect them at a different level. You are truly saying: I notice you and I appreciate what you are doing.
When you simply recognize someone, it usually is for something they do. Or how they look. It is just an external marker.
When I take the time to truly notice and acknowledge, I walk away energized. Most importantly, the other person knows that I saw them for their core values, their strengths, and their actions – their whole being.
Let me know what your experience is with these two different types of addressing the people around you.
Have a good week.
Melinda