Stop praising people!
What makes praise problematic?
When you praise, you pass a judgment on the person.
For instance, when you call your friend's painting "amazing" - you're judging the painting as per your taste.
If you have to praise, then
Ask the person how they feel after having accomplished what they desired. Or being descriptive by asking them questions about their execution instead of simply praising. If you can't avoid then praise their effort instead of their talent. People like that more.
Not "you did a good job setting up the table", instead "thank-you for setting the table". People want to know that their contribution to the community has been meaningful.
Falling victim to praise
A common problem that arises when we use praise is when the receiving party gets accustomed to hearing praises. Their accomplished project bears less meaning or meaning only when it is validated by others. Bear in mind, everybody's idea of excellence varies. You will never be able to live up to every person's ideals.
Kids lose sight of the bigger picture when their accomplishments are praised, often getting dependent on them. They start to focus on getting lauded instead of deriving meaningful value from their work for the sake of it. This makes children opt for paths that will achieve praise as a result instead of pursuing meaningful endeavors which may not meet the same level of appreciation.


