Encouragement Can Start with You
Encouragement is a powerful force, especially in times of adversity. It serves as a guiding light that can help individuals navigate through life's darkest storms.
There is a familiar gospel song by Donald Lawrence and the Tri-Cities Singers entitled ‘Encourage Yourself’. Oftentimes, I have to remind myself to be positive and encouraging navigating the strains of adversity, especially in the spaces and places where diversity and inclusion are not exactly welcomed.
Here are five key points highlighting the importance of positive encouragement:
Boosting Resilience: Adversity often tests our resilience. It's during these challenging moments that positive encouragement becomes essential. When someone believes in us and offers words of support, it bolsters our ability to bounce back from setbacks. This belief can be a catalyst for personal growth and development.
Fostering Self-Confidence: Positive encouragement plays a crucial role in building self-confidence. When we receive affirmations and constructive feedback, it reaffirms our worth and capabilities. This newfound confidence empowers us to take on challenges with a belief in our ability to overcome them.
Creating a Supportive Environment: Encouragement is not limited to individuals; it extends to the creation of supportive communities and workplaces. In environments where positivity and encouragement thrive, individuals are more likely to collaborate effectively, share ideas, and innovate. This leads to collective progress and success. (I am especially hopeful that this key point plays out in an upcoming community focus group event later this month.)
Mental and Emotional Well-being: In moments of adversity, our mental and emotional well-being can be severely tested. Positive encouragement acts as a mental health booster. It reduces stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation by reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. It encourages seeking help when needed and promotes mental resilience.
Motivation to Persist: Adversity often demands persistence and determination. Encouragement provides the motivation needed to keep moving forward, even when the path seems daunting. Knowing that someone believes in our ability to overcome obstacles can reignite our determination and drive to achieve our goals.
In essence, positive encouragement is a beacon of hope during challenging times. It not only bolsters our individual spirits but also strengthens the bonds within communities and organizations. By fostering self-confidence, reducing stress, and promoting resilience, it empowers individuals to not only survive adversity but to thrive in its midst.
It's important to remember that while encouragement is a powerful tool, it should be genuine and heartfelt. Empty praise lacks the transformative impact of sincere support. Thus, as an aspiring writer who focuses on DEIA and leadership, I have a unique opportunity to emphasize the importance of authentic and inclusive encouragement that uplifts everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances.
In conclusion, positive encouragement is a cornerstone of personal and collective growth in times of adversity. Its ability to boost resilience, foster self-confidence, create supportive environments, enhance mental and emotional well-being, and provide motivation to persist makes it an invaluable asset in our journey through life's challenges. So, let us continue to encourage one another, for in doing so, we not only strengthen ourselves but also contribute to a more resilient and compassionate world. And, don’t we all want to make the world a better place?!
“Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” (1 Thess. 5:11)
Please subscribe and share with others. PASS IT ON!
Here is the link to my LinkedIn course, ‘Managing a Diverse Team’, now available in nine languages.
https://www.linkedin.com/learning/managing-a-diverse-team/welcome?u=2125562
