I’m pretty sure most people reading this post have felt under-praised in life more than overpraised, at least at some points in life. It’s common to yearn for recognition and positive reinforcement when we do well, or even because we don’t do bad things or underachieve on a regular basis. Such praise helps motivate us to continue achievement. It can boost our self-esteem and therefore keep us psychologically well-adjusted. Obviously excessive criticism does us harm, but what about adulation? Continue reading →