Reflection:
How do you typically respond when someone shares good news with you?
Suppose a colleague or friend shares news about their awesome summer road trip. Which of these responses are you most likely to choose?
- Say “Hmph!” and turn away.
- Say “ Gee that sounds like way too much time at the wheel, cooped up in a car with the kids. I bet it was exhausting, putting on all those miles!” while frowning and shaking your head.
- Say “Heh, good for you!” showing little or no emotion.
- Say “I’m delighted your vacation went so well. I know how much you were looking forward to it. Let’s have lunch so you can fill me in on the details!” while smiling and maintaining eye contact.
All the responses have positive or negative consequences for your relationship, and option 4 stands the best chance of building it up.
In her research on relationships, Shelley Gable from the University of California, has learned that the quality of your reaction can make a huge difference and contribute directly to either strengthening or diminishing the relationship. She describes four categories of replies. (more…)
Love this observation by Dewitt Jones about the visual gifts life is presenting him with as a photographer. I think it applies to life in general:
“I don’t have to know. Something is happening and I’m having too much fun following it. I’ll just try and show up every day with all my receptors open. No brakes. No judgments. I don’t want to miss any of the gifts.”
You can read the entire article online in Outdoor Photographer.
REFLECTION: In the last few weeks, the media has been very generous with coverage of my latest book, Press Pause…Think Again. A couple of morning TV shows, and several newspapers ran features. Many clients, colleagues and friends sent along their congrats.
However, one of the most treasured comments came from my Mom, who by phone and via Facebook made a point of saying, “We’re proud of you.” Even after all these years, hearing those words from one of my parents still has a profoundly uplifting effect on me.
I’d hazard a guess that appreciative comments have a positive effect on you, too. Especially so, when they come from someone whose opinion you value.
There is something validating and uplifting about others taking an interest in what is happening in your world, shining a little light in your direction, and taking the time to let you know you’re on their radar.
Research supports the positive impact of showing an interest in others and expressing appreciation. (more…)
