Praise people as much as you can.  Praise tends to have a wonderful effect on people.  For example: If you say to your client, “Thanks for walking with me today, Mr. Jones.  I really enjoyed it and you did a great job.” ...don’t you think Mr. Jones will feel good about himself and be more eager to walk tomorrow? Or, if you say to your coworker, “Thank you, Sarah, for helping me transfer Mrs. Smith.  I couldn’t have done it without you.  Now, can I help you with Mrs. Johnson?” ...you will be letting your coworker know how much you appreciate her help. Don’t forget to praise yourself.  We are all good at giving ourselves negative messages such as, “How could I forget that.  I am so dumb!”   or “I feel so grumpy.  I’m no good to anybody.” The hard thing for most of us is to give ourselves positive messages.  How about trying this:  At the end of each work day, tell yourself a few things that you did really well that day such as, “I finished all my client care on time today.” or “I really feel good about how I handled that disagreement with Susan.” or “Mrs. Smith and I had such a good conversation during her bath today.”  Remember that being professional means that you admit your mistakes and your achievements, too! Have fun at work!  Bring your sense of humor to work with you every day.  If a situation starts to upset you, try to see the lighter side of it.  Share a funny story with your clients and coworkers, or sing a silly song while you work.  Don’t wait for someone else to make work fun.  Take charge and do it yourself.  Remember, time flies when you’re having fun! Do something that makes you different from everyone else who does the same job.  For example:  Find a saying or a joke to share with your clients and coworkers every day like, “Nature’s wonderful.  The older you get, the harder it is to see yourself in the mirror.”  They will come to look forward to your daily messages!  Or, find out the birthdays of your clients and coworkers.  Give each of them a birthday card or sing “Happy Birthday” to them on their special day.   The goal is to put some of your spirit into your work—and you’ll get back more than you give! Putting It All Together, continued IN  THE KNOW PAGE 10