Definition: Encouragement

Everyone needs encouragement. So many people in this world feel discouraged, pressed in, cornered, unworthy, unlovable, or completely overwhelmed by the circumstances of their lives. You can make a difference in one moment if you will honestly and sincerely encourage them. Let them know that they are capable, that they can do the task before them.

Adults, children and senior citizens all need to be encouraged. One way to do this is to talk with them, give them a clear picture of how you see them doing something well. Give them your vision when they don’t have their own. Be gentle. Encourage one moment and empathize the next. Let them talk about their dreams and how they used to be or in moments when they felt strong. Sometimes it is necessary to be firm or decisive about the positive picture that you hold of them. Don’t waver in your thoughts, be sure that they will be able to do what they want and do it well. Encourage them to do it one step at a time. Praise these little accomplishments. Encourage them to something a little more challenging. Keep recalling that vision of strength for them. Encourage the positive in them; don’t let them have a self-pity party.

People may not know what they want to do, and it is not your job to tell them what they should do. But you can encourage them towards what they like to do, what makes them joyful, what makes them feel strong and empowered. You can encourage them to make choices that feel better for them. You can encourage anyone exactly where you are.

If you are in school, or if you are working, find the positive right there. Sometimes a smile is all it takes. If they are feeling down, a hug can do wonders to make someone feel worthy or lovable. You can encourage with your words and your thoughts, by listening, by being a sounding board, by leading them with your own actions or way of being.

When you need to be encouraged, come to me, or go to another person who can offer encouragement to you. Don’t go to anyone whom you know will condemn your actions or judge you. Go to the people with vision and strength of their own who are making some positive impact. Every creature on this planet can be and needs to be encouraged at one time or another. Be that person who encourages others. Encourage with kindness, with love, by examples, with praise, with your words.

It is as simple as saying “ You can do this.” To encourage is one of the greatest things that you can do for someone. This doesn’t mean that you do their work for them. For anyone to become everything for which they are capable they have to do it. They have the opportunity to embrace a new choice, a new way of being, and they have to walk through it. You can be with them every step of the way. You can uplift and strengthen by your words of encouragement.

Also remember to encourage yourself. “I know you can do this.” “Come on now, you can do this.” One step out is all it takes to transform a situation, or yourself. Step after step consistently will bring you into a new place. Only you or I can take that first step, and the second and the third. Sometimes you are the only person with words of encouragement for someone who is doing something outstanding or great. Great teachers or mentors need encouragement too; they can doubt themselves sometimes. They wonder if they are making the difference, or if they are doing enough. It’s not easy being the odd man out or to stand up and have convictions about something when everyone else is going along with the crowd. If you don’t have any words to say, a touch on the arm or shoulder, a pat on the back, a smile, or a spontaneous gift can go a long way. Find ways to encourage someone. Do so sincerely. Receive encouragement yourself. Be open to moments when you can impact someone’s life in a positive and gentle manner, or a profound way.

I encourage you to embrace your life, and reach every height that you can! YOU CAN DO IT!!