CELEBRATE THE SUCCESS OF OTHERS

We all know how good it feels when someone hears about a recent success we have had and says something to us that acknowledges and affirms us in that success. Of course, if we like hearing those affirming words, surely others like to hear affirming words, as well. So I like to keep my eyes and ears wide open, continuously watching and listening when others share their successes. I note those successes and at the right time and right place tell the person how awesome that is, and also try to find someway to celebrate the success.

It might be as simple as going and grabbing an ice cream cone or a coffee. Or I might go all out, and take them out to lunch. I make it my personal commitment to celebrate the success of someone in my life at least once a week.

The smartest thing that you can do is set this as a personal performance standard for yourself as well..

Here are the benefits. We all know the more you give, the more you get. It's a natural law or principle, that keeps us focused on others and not on just ourselves.

I watched my son Micah apply this very principal a couple weeks ago when his son Hunter placed fourth out of 19, in the area Spelling Bee for his grade. Hunter was obviously quite proud of his accomplishments and Micah could easily have left it at that. Then I heard he took all his kids to town to get ice cream to celebrate Hunter’s success and my heart was warmed and confirmed. (This by the way, gave me an opportunity to confirm Micah in his parenting.)

Micah did one more smart thing. He seized the opportunity to challenge Hunter to study even harder next year and shoot for the moon! I believe Hunter is very committed. When we celebrate the success of others everyone wins. Maybe Grandpa will buy ice cream next time.