Is there anything excellent?

Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

At dinner on New Year's Day, we were discussing the surveys that car repair shops ask you to complete to rate the service they have provided.  One of the members of our family stated that he saves the "excellent" column for service that is extraordinary or outstanding.

I wonder how often we do that in life.  How often do we withhold affirmation or praise because someone has not been "perfect" in our eyes.  Do we search for the excellence in what they are done?  Do we have the attitude that we can find what is worthy to be praised in the work they have done or do we assume that they can do better?

What would be the fruit of our affirmation and encouragement?