Unlock the Power of Encouragement Today!

One of my core beliefs is that people and organizations need encouragement–words of support, acknowledgement, affirmation, and applause for what they are doing well. In my experience, withholding affirmation is a mistake. Have you ever heard someone say; “I receive too much encouragement.”?

We can all apply this coaching point related to speaking encouragement to others.

For example, I have learned that if I want to bring out the best in m wife, I acknowledge the best in her. On the contrary, I could choose to find fault with the little things I notice. But I’m sure you would agree that my marital relationship will last longer and be stronger with a positive seeking strategy. Some time ago, Ronni suggested I update my photo on social media, so what did I do? I chose a photo of the two of us. Wow, did that get a positive reaction!

Another encouragement strategy–take the time to send handwritten notes of encouragement to family members, to friends, your work team, and anyone else that God puts on your heart who needs words of encouragement. I wrote notes of encouragement to faculty and staff members for many years during my tenure as head of school at Life Christian Academy. Years later, upon visiting their offices or classrooms, I would see those handwritten notes posted on bulletin boards, above their desk, or in other visible areas. What does this tell us–those notes did not get thrown away–they were important to the person receiving the encouraging words.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 says “So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you already doing.”  This was an affirmation written by Paul to the people of the church in the early years after Jesus has ascended to heaven. Paul was simply saying, “keep on lifting others up.”

Action Step:

Think of five people that you believe need encouragement today. Pick up the phone, write a note, or invite them to get together. All of these actions will be very well received, and you will be lifted up as well. Positive steps get positive results.

Watch for our next edition on “perseverance”, coming soon.