(Great questions lead to great answers; weak questions, weak ones.)


“Why am I not acknowledging others?”


Coaching Point: First, what does “acknowledging” mean? What is the essence of an acknowledgment?

It is not about superficial or transient. That is the realm of compliments. “What a pretty shirt you have on” is a compliment or flattery. An acknowledgment is deeper.

It is the identification and naming of an attribute of another person. It is something you see in them that may not be obvious to others but is clear to you. It could be any attribute – their grace, kindness, or ease. Their intellect, creativity, or spontaneity. Sense of humor, connectedness, or their zest for life. It is something core to their being. And you see it.

When someone hears an acknowledgment, they feel that you ‘get’ them, who they really are. That you understand their true nature. An acknowledgment strikes a deep chord. It feels good.

One can argue that we are an under-acknowledged society today. Always in a hurry. Living on sound bites. With transient relationships.

The likely answer to this Great Question is that people under-acknowledge you. Your cup is not full. You want others to recognize and value your core qualities, whether you realize it or not. As a result, it can be hard to acknowledge others.

Good news! Become an acknowledger (if that’s a word). Enjoy seeing people deeply. Tell them what you see. Enjoy their pleasant reactions.

Can you guess what will begin to happen for you?


Copyright 2025 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.