Do you ever get discouraged? Most of us can get excited about a new opportunity when we first hear of it (especially if we’re not yet too jaded!) But what do you do when the initial fire wears off and you come face to face with difficulties, discouragement, and obstacles?
When You Need a Friend….
In times when you’re struggling, don’t you just wish that a warm, kind friend would seek you out, give you an encouraging word and a thoughtful, sincere compliment? What if I told you that you could be assured this pick-me-up anytime you desired it? Would you be interested?
…Be One!
Here’s how you get the vital encouragement you need to pick yourself up when times get tough: encourage others. No, I don’t mean that you should encourage friends and neighbors today, in hopes that they’ll reciprocate in the days to come (although that may also happen). Instead, I’m encouraging you to seek out someone to pay a compliment to because that action will actually encourage you as much, if not more, than it does them.
Building, Building, Building Others Up
The reason why this works falls into the large category of things I don’t quite understand. I don’t know why it brings us such great encouragement when we encourage others—I only know very simply and clearly that it does. Incidentally, this idea is something we parents always teach our kids; however, like so many simple concepts that fill children’s books, we adults never seem to practice them!
Be the Leader
If your environment is anything like the workplaces and neighborhoods that most of us live in, the practice of an unsolicited and sincere compliment will be somewhat foreign to you. It is difficult to start a healthy habit when it’s not modeled for you, but then again, readers of TotalThriver are trailblazers anyway, right??? Thankfully, this practice is one that’s relatively easy to start—people really do appreciate compliments, whether they’re your colleague, boss, or just someone you occasionally pass by.
A Win-Win Situation
Make your compliment specific, genuine, and personal. When you notice a job well done, a positive attitude, or a bright idea, take a moment to share your delight. Whether it’s something small or a significant victory, both you and the recipient of your compliment will leave the encounter happier, more positive, and energized for success. Consider your fire rekindled!