The Power of Praise

While in Mexico, I started a new series that called itself "the power of praise". I wanted to showcase how different people react to being told good things about themselves in a meaningful context.

Praise is such a powerful tool. It can shape the way we see ourselves and our environments. It is powerful enough to change brain chemistry, arouse the mind, and stimulate the body.

My first installment of this series began with a woman I met at a boiler room Dj set. She was the DJ. I had my camera there and that led to us talking about my gallery, which she expressed excitement in participating in. So, we set a date to meet and create.

The Power of Praise series has three steps in each session:

1. I ask the subject(s) about their recent accomplishments, challenges, and passions

2. We engage in a bonding activity that includes physical touch (In my sessions with couples, they provided this touch to each other.

3. The subject is given praise, directly (either from me or their partner), and their reaction is recorded.

My new DJ friend expressed a lot surrounding their new appreciation of their self worth, noting how good it felt to be freed from obligatory energy to show up in certain ways that weren't necessarily authentic. We talked about how it feels when you give more than you receive, and how draining it is when you stop choosing yourself. I was so thankful for the vulnerability during that session, as it made giving praise that much easier.

When it came time to giver her her well-deserved flowers, I set up the camera just to the side of me, and looked her in her eyes. I wanted her to know and truly feel that I saw her in that moment. More than just a mother, an entertainer, or a business connection. I wanted her to know that her humanity was seen. And not only seen, but understood and appreciated.

People deserve to hear good things about themselves in meaningful ways. If you find yourself wanting to tell someone they're doing well, or that you see them working hard... Tell them. Know that you are worthy of the same. Set aside time with your friends or partner(s) to just go back and forth talking about what you love about each other. Talk about the things your'e proud about, and the challenges you see them facing and working through. I think we could be making much deeper connections and stronger bonds if we add small practices like this into our every day life.