Prizeworthy

More about the book

Using mindfulness skills can significantly enhance interpersonal communication. By incorporating validation and compassionate presence, we can foster genuine connections and support. Psychologist Mitch Abblett refers to this skill as prizing, which he has found to greatly benefit relationships among parents and children, spouses, in schools, and therapeutic environments. Our culture often relies on vague praise like "good job!" for encouragement, particularly with children. However, research indicates that such generic praise can be inadequate and sometimes detrimental, as it often ties to behavioral expectations. In contrast, prizing is a heartfelt gift rooted in present-moment awareness and compassion, aiming solely to connect and empower others. When we adopt the prizeworthy approach, we plant seeds of possibility in others, which are essential for psychological, emotional, and spiritual growth. Particularly for children, prizing can be transformative compared to rote praise. Abblett illustrates this skill with real-life examples, demonstrating its positive impact on young lives. He also provides practical strategies for nurturing prizing in home, educational, and therapeutic settings.