The concept is so simple and personal. Yet it is also profoundly powerful. In the book we see how the power of sincere acknowledgement not only benefits individuals in their own lives, but, in a ripple effect, its contagion might also benefit our society on a much wider scale.

Judy writes with the personal conviction that each individual’s actions can combine with others to make a difference in this world. She is not ashamed to think big: Why not start a revolution based on kindness? Then this book is the new manifesto.

If something so easy has so many good results, why aren’t people doing this already? She reports that many people believe that if they praise too often, their opinions will be devalued, or that people will value their praise more if it is hard to earn. Other reasons for stinginess: too busy, too preoccupied, and too embarrassed. In the workplace, “tough” bosses are worried that profligate distribution of praise might make employees soft and complacent, so that they would not work hard enough.

None of these fears are true, says Judy! No investment in good opinion when it is well-earned is wasted. Think of this often-seen snippet of inner thinking by a dissatisfied worker: “Why should I put so much effort into it [whatever it is] if people don’t even care?” Clearly this is a moment where acknowledgment might be the key to unlocking pent up effort and feeling. Instead of making slackers out of a team of workers, acknowledgement is actually an incredibly effective way to build enthusiasm and commitment.

In personal relationships, the dynamics are similar—the giver gets as much from this gift as the receiver. How many material goods can you say that about? Visit iil.com/publishing for more details, and to order.