AN003: The Attagirl Effect
Who knows what snapshot memories might unlock someone's future.
Snapshot memories. That’s what I call those moments frozen in time, when something so meaningful happens that you can recall the time, the place, your clothing, the atmosphere -- maybe even the smell. We all have these snapshot moments that come alive months, years, or even decades, later.
For me, one is standing in the summer sunshine at my mailbox on Camelot Boulevard in a Wisconsin lakeside city. I reach in, grab an oversized brown envelope, and quickly tear it open to see the latest issue of a jewelry design magazine. My eyes dart over the table of contents. There it is: a short profile of a jewelry artist, my first official byline in a national magazine. I take a deep breath as a satisfied grin spreads across my face. My feet do a bouncy happy dance.
Moments of Lasting Impact
That article — and many other articles and books that followed — can be traced in part to a single comment made by a female colleague several years prior to that summer day. At the time I was a sculptor, and teaching Ceramics in a university art department. Marge Levy, a ceramic artist and Board Member of the national ceramic arts association, told me my writing was strong and encouraged me to contribute to the organization’s newsletter. She saw in me things I did not see in my 25-year-old self, and generously gave me an “Attagirl” show of support. It had a profound effect, and launched me on a lifelong journey of writing and publishing.
Generosity of Spirit
That passing comment broke through a wall of professional and personal development for me. It’s not that I doubted I could become a published writer — it’s that I was blind to the possibilities. Suddenly another woman recognized a talent I had not seen, and demonstrated the generosity of spirit to shine a light of recognition and worthiness.
Now chances are high you’ve had Attagirl moments in your career as well. A shout: Well done! An observation: You know, you’re really good at that. A vote of confidence, a word of support, a fist bump of celebration. They can pass in mere seconds. Yet we often overlook the long-term impact these signs of encouragement can deliver.
Shine a Light
Research shows that women benefit from collaboration and mutual support. An Attagirl gesture that builds up another does not diminish the giver. In contrast, it brings satisfaction in knowing we’re moving everyone forward.
My challenge to you this week is to think back on your snapshot memories and the Attagirl moments that catalyzed them. Reach out to those who offered support, and thank them.
Then, pay it forward, and spread your own Attagirl goodwill. We’ve all been through a tough, tough year. More Attagirl moments are needed — and we all can deliver. Who knows what snapshot moment may unlock someone’s future. Go create one.