Be an Encourager

The world certainly is filled with a lot of critics. For example, take a look at social media and, unfortunately, you will find many people criticizing those who don’t believe exactly the same as they do. Too many times, people look for the “bad” in others and become very critical and judgmental. All this does is bring people down.

Now more than ever, the world needs more people to step up, stop judging and start encouraging one another.

Encouragement goes a long way. If you have ever watched an awards show, you will notice that most speeches start out with giving thanks for someone who encouraged them and taught them to believe in themselves. Many will show gratitude to others for encouraging them to take a risk and to never give up. They are letting others know that without that encouragement of the people they name, they might have not achieved the accomplishment for which they are being recognized.

To encourage means to give support, to build confidence, and to bring hope. When we encourage others, we are inspiring them. The goal is to uplift, stimulate, to spur on, validate, to affirm, motivate, to help strengthen, and build them up. The bottom line is that when we encourage others, we are simply lifting them up.

So here’s the question of the day. Would the people closest to you consider you a critic or an encourager? Whatever the answer is, we can always improve. Let’s make a decision going forward to be an awesome encourager.

The first step is to speak up to encourage others each day. Intentions are nice but they don’t bless anyone. Verbalize your encouragement to others, and speak appreciation wherever you go. Look for the good in others and say positive, encouraging words to them. You’ll be amazed how you can change someone’s day.

If you find yourself being overly critical or perhaps talking down to someone, change that behavior immediately. Be aware of this and make a commitment daily not to do this. This is called taming the tongue.

You will find that when you become an encourager, you are also encouraging yourself. When you make the decision to make other people’s day brighter, you will find yourself smiling a lot more. Make the decision starting today to lift others up. Be an encouragement to people you don’t know, and make it your goal that each person you encounter has a brighter day because they met you. If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours.

The world is filled with too many critics. Make the decision to be an encourager. The world needs people like you to do that.

Be a blessing and have a super fantastic week!

RICH NORTON

Regional Sales Manager RMS

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash