This year, my new buzzword is affirmation. After my last two years in college, I have realized that kind, affirming, uplifting words are essential to myself and to others. I do not mean that I am working on being less negative to people, but rather being less neutral, less unresponsive. Often, I only hear what I am doing wrong, but not necessarily what I am doing right. This leaves me in a state of feeling defeated and dejected.
Where some positive feedback goes unsaid, especially in a workplace or group setting, because it is expected that you do something a particular way, it is my goal to say those often unsaid things. I have found both as someone following a leader or being the leader, relaying positive affirmation can make a large difference.
If someone is beautiful, they deserve to be told. If someone is doing something great in their job, they deserve to be told. If someone is kind, they deserve to be told and affirmed.
As the roommate to my best friend this upcoming year, who will be an RA on a freshman hall, I get the opportunity to affirm Crystal in how she is leading a group of 30+ girls well. As editor in chief of the newspaper, I get to tell my staff and writers that they are kicking butt at certain parts of the production. As a friend, I have the joy of uplifting friends and acknowledging their successes. I have the opportunity to share gracious words and provide people with a little healing sweetness.
So here's to junior year and to gracious words. Here's to affirmation and healing from it.
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