I can be pretty annoying sometimes. My occasional forgetfulness is bothersome but it REALLY bugs my husband when I point out the good in the failed efforts of others.

Someone may have just run their car through our fence, but I, in earnest, point out that they at least avoided our mailbox. The person who is blocking our lane of traffic to turn, when there is a turn lane, infuriates him; I mention that it’s a good idea to not dart in front of oncoming traffic. My son colors on the wall. Hubby freaks out; “At least he used the washable markers,” is my reply. (It’s really annoying. I know.)

Parents used to tell me at conferences they didn’t know how I could put up with “those kids.” Often times “those kids” were their own offspring. It was weird to me that they would not talk up the golden traits in their kids. Many parents would say they were being “realistic” about their children. I would point out that if you always tell your kid they are “bad” then being “bad” becomes their reality.

I still watch the morning news, even though the negativity kills me. The journalists drool at dropping headlines about failure, fighting, and fear but the feel-good, happy-ending stories are giving a 15 second spot and a quick commentator remark as the closing credits roll. Why is that?

 Why is it so much easier to share the dirt on people than it is to find the gold in others?

Now I am as guilty as the next dirt digger of pointing out flaws in others when I am feeling snarky. (It’s that whole human imperfection thing.) However, I desperately try to find the value in each person. I strive to be a gold digger.

 As you drive to work or make your way through the halls of school, seek out good things in others. Compliment them on their appearance or on an accomplishment you know they achieved. Be a gold digger.

 Save newspaper clippings of kids’ sports and neighbor’s garden club wins. Share those clippings with them and let them see you appreciate their efforts. Send a card of congratulations or gratitude for someone in your life. A simple note holds endless value. Be a gold digger.

 If you are a manager or team leader, make sure your energy is dedicated to discovering and nurturing the strengths of those you lead. The skill and talent of those on your team will only flourish when you invest support and appreciation. Be a gold digger.

 When you are feeling less than “golden,” maybe a little bit snarky, make a list of people you appreciate or things that others have done to enrich your life. Savor a moment of laughter or take a fond stroll down memory lane with a loved one. Time is priceless. Giving time and expressing gratitude are some of the most precious commodities available. If there is someone that you are struggling to appreciate or work with, put intent into finding value in that person. Be a gold digger.

By: Melanie A. Peters

P.S. The kind of gold digger I wrote about is different than the ones in this commercial.