Everyone needs kudos! It adds value
and worth to the person and is generally accepted as a step above praise. In
the 19th century, kudos entered English as a singular noun, a transliteration
of a Greek singular noun kŷdos meaning “praise or renown.” It was at first used
largely in academic circles, but it gained wider currency in the 1920s in
journalistic use, particularly in headlines.
Back in 1986, Mars, Inc. created a
granola crunch bar called Kudos. Their marketing tag line was “Kudos, I’m yours”.
Today it is still one of the most popular health bars on the market. The name resonated
with people.
In many American cultures, the verbal
act of giving praise to others is a dying art and not used much. Who doesn’t
want praise and value and worth? The word Kudos has many relatives. Words like applause,
renown, acclaim, compliment, fame, flattery, credit, regard, distinction,
prominence, honor, glory, and accolade are just a few meanings that kudos represents.
“It is work to remember to give
kudos to others”, says a church business leader. But if we fail to maintain this
verbal act of regard, we will lose the full aspect of the very culture we are
trying so hard to create. Kudos can be given in business settings, church
settings, marriages, relationships, friendships, and wherever you have a desire
to puff another person up.
Whatever word base you use to acknowledge
another person, try using kudos next time. Even better, just choose a word and
use it often in multiple cultures and watch what happens. In fact, watch what
happens to the other person as you give kudos. Their attitude will change,
their performance will increase, their countenance improves, their value goes
up, and they walk different with their head high.
The fun part about kudos is it represents
so many words in just one word, you just can’t go wrong with kudos. Look around
today and I guarantee you will find a place to use the word. As you go through
your day, make it a habit to give kudos to someone at least once a day. You
will be amazed at the difference it makes in culture.
Thought? Comments?
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