But with all the hustle and hard work that goes on behind the scenes, there are moments where you look for that extra push that keeps you motivated and focused on your goals. There are visual or emotional triggers that help keep us grounded – but sometimes we need a little bit more.

Affirmation

We have conversations with our colleagues and peers on a daily basis. We ask for advice, we brainstorm and we collaborate on ideas. But there are moments where it goes deeper than that. Moments where words from these same peers come less expected, where they catch you by surprise and provide you with an extra push. They observe, take stake in your work and  the positive moves you’re making and shed a few words that helps create this sense of affirmation.

Validation

Seth Godin had an interesting post in regards to validation and the fact that if you’re waiting for it, your focus is probably a bit off. Though I agree with his overall sentiment, there’s a fine line between validation & affirmation.

We may have our sights set on the proper goals but as we work down that long and tumultuous road to success, comes those pit stops (roadblocks?) where there’s a need for those few words. This does provide a sense of validity but it helps further us down that path.

Your Homework

As easy as it is to provide this to our peers and colleagues, it unfortunately doesn’t happen often enough. We get caught up in our daily routine and our own work to remember that little things like this account for much more.

So, I have a little homework assignment for you:

• Take some time today and dig into the work of someone within your own community

• Understand what they’re doing on the day to day

• Provide genuine, positive feedback to their work

It’ll go a long way.