In a work community, praise may seem like a small gesture, but its impact can be remarkably powerful. When we pause to recognize positive actions at work, we strengthen motivation, belonging, and well-being for everyone involved.

Sometimes we may think that a colleague has done something truly positive – for example, helped us selflessly with a challenging task. In such moments, thanks and praise are well deserved.

Do we remember to use words of praise in our everyday work, or do we save them for special occasions? And do we remember to mention positive actions to each other that help strengthen our sense of community? Receiving positive feedback feels good and encourages us to continue good practices.

When successes are noticed and praised, it creates a strong sense of purpose and competence. Giving praise also brings good feelings to the person offering it. Noticing and acknowledging positive things often improves our mood and, in turn, increases our sense of happiness.❤️

What really happens in our brains when we are praised?

When we register praise, our brain’s reward system becomes activated. At that moment, the information about the praise is transmitted to areas of the brain that process emotions and memory (such as the amygdala and hippocampus). The brain’s reward system is a neural network that regulates feelings of pleasure, motivation, and learning. At the same time, dopamine – a neurotransmitter in the brain – is released, making us feel pleasure. This also increases our motivation to repeat the action that led to the praise.

Receiving praise can strengthen our positive self-image and reveal hidden strengths, encouraging us to improve ourselves. When praise is sincere, it supports healthy self-esteem and helps us see ourselves as capable and valuable. Praise can also enhance our sense of belonging.

Giving praise is a small act with a big impact. 

So, praise your colleague whenever there’s even the slightest reason to do so. Remember the power of praise – both at work and at home. 

Do you have someone in your team who, in some way, positively influences the work atmosphere or brings joy to others in the workplace? 

Praise them – you can never know just how much or how far-reaching the impact might be for your colleague. Praise can be your superpower, one that also gives you something in return: a genuine boost of good feeling.

Wanda Pirinen
Manager, Wellbeing

(Photo: Sami Turunen)