Duck, duck, goose.

The game of chasing each other, fighting for a spot in the circle. And this, my fowl-loving friend, may not be a game you left behind in kindergarten. Think about the people in your life who might be fighting for a spot in your circle - your circle of recognition. If you adopt a pattern of life that focuses on golden eggs and neglects the goose, you will soon be without the asset that produces golden eggs. On the other hand, if you only take care of the goose with no aim toward the golden eggs, you soon won't have the wherewithal to feed yourself or the goose. Now, before you ruffle your feathers, here are a few tips:

1. Be timely. Don't wait. Praise should be given as soon as possible after the action or achievement occurs.
2. Think individual-individual. Recognize the individuals who took the positive action. If it was a group effort, first recognize the individuals and then the group as a whole.
3. Be sincere. Be sincere and show that you care; otherwise the recognition does more harm than good.

Sincere recognition—an eggcellent approach!

This Effectiveness Tip of the Week comes once again via email from the good folks at FranklinCovey.com