Principle 2: Give honest sincere appreciation

• sincere appreciation: we nourish the bodies of our children, friend and employees but how seldom do we nourish their self-esteem; we neglect to give them kind words of appreciation.
• Flattery is shallow, selfish and insincere; it is counterfeit and it will get you into trouble when you pass it on- it is cheap praise; telling the other person exactly what he thinks about himself.
• appreciation is sincere, if you stopped thinking about yourself for a while and thought about the other persons good points, you wouldn't have to resort to cheap flattery that can be spotted before it's out of your mouth

What to do:

• stop thinking about your accomplishments and wants & try to figure out the other persons good points- give honest and sincere appreciation. be hearty in your approbation and lavish in their praise.
• if you enjoy food at a restaurant/ cooked by someone- send word that it was excellently prepared.
• if a sales person shows you unusual curtesy, mention it.
• if you listen to a lecturer - give them an appreciative comment.
• leave a friendly trail of little sparks of gratitude.
• make a point to praise for the little good that is being done correctly in front of other people (to have others appreciate them too).

Remember:

• Hurting people does not change them and it is not called for.
• I shall pass this way but once any good therefore that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any human being let me do it now, let me not defer not neglect it for I shall not pass this way again.
• Every man I meet is my superior is some way, in that I learn from him. --Emerson