Whenever you place attention on something, you bring energy to it, much like watering a plant. So when you acknowledge someone for what you see them doing or being, you’re actually pouring miracle grow on the thing you are noticing. Let’s say you notice that your friend shows up on time for your commitments. Some people might not say anything, but you might choose to acknowledge this person by saying, “I appreciate the fact that you are punctual and that you honor your commitments.” By doing this, you are actually increasing the frequency of those qualities of integrity and punctualness your own life while also affirming it in your freind.
So often times we look for what’s missing rather than on what is present. If you’ll look for what IS, that quality will expand and seep into every area of your life.