Praise Leads to Complacency

Inherent within many of us is the need to know that we are doing a good job. It is normal to want praise and acknowledgement for the value that we bring to the work that we do. We all need praise to a certain extent as it serves to motivate us and keep us on the right track. 

However, an over reliance on praise can lead to outcomes that we do not desire, such as complacency. Research has shown that the vast majority of us still seek an overabundance of praise rather than seeking the critical feedback necessary to make the improvements needed for continued growth and development. 

Seeking and receiving critical feedback is challenging, as it can cause feelings of vulnerability. Vulnerability does not equate to weakness or  ineffectiveness.  Making ourselves vulnerable requires risk and courage, especially when seeking and receiving critical feedback. 

However, it is very important to depersonalize this feedback when receiving it in order to move forward in positive ways. To learn from and accept our mistakes as being critical to the process of growth. 

How to find the balance between needing praise and seeking critical feedback is our greatest challenge.  When we do find this balance,  only great things can result.