Driving into the office this Monday morning I was listening to a radio program and the topic was encouragement. The jest of the message was that everyone needs encouragement. No matter our age, sex, profession; how successful we are in life or if we are going through some trial or set back. As a parent, I have strived to encourage my daughters to be the best they can be and more importantly to be happy.
This radio program gave me a wonderful idea. Create an encouragement folder. A box or folder where you keep cards, notes or any kind of correspondent where people have given you words of encouragement. My husband is my best source of encouragement. He tells me everyday I can do anything. I am able. I am worthy. I am loved. Encouragement can come in all kinds of ways. Kind words, a note in your lunch box or brief case, a thank you card, an email. It can be given to you by a simple touch or a subtle wink of the eye. An associate from my office sat down beside me this morning and was telling me how his career is not going as he had planned. He is struggling financially and just going through a rough time. I encouraged him to keep at it and don't give up. He looked at me and touched my arm and said thank you and also encouraged me to carry on; don't give up. Even though he was down he gave me encouragement.
We need to learn how to encourage ourselves. Many of us like to encourage other people but sometimes we need to cheer ourselves on. Some ideas on ways to encourage yourself:
- Play Your Favorite Music - Music to me is uplifting. Whether it is oldies, country, show tunes or classical listening to music refreshes your soul.
- Be Proud Of Yourself: Being proud of yourself is not being boastful. Feel good about your accomplishments. Whether it is losing that last 10 pounds, getting everything done on your to-do list for the day or making that special dinner for your family. Self-esteem is a big part of feeling encouraged and satisfied with yourself. It is easy to get the blues.
- Put Up Reminders: Put up reminders in places you will see everyday. Write notes to yourself on your bathroom mirror. My refrigerator is covered in pictures of my family. I see this every morning when I make my first cup of coffee and reminds me how blessed I am and to make it through another day.
- Live A Healthy Life: Your lifestyle habits has a lot to do with your outlook. If you don't drink enough water, get minimal sleep or eat poorly every day you will not feel as great about yourself.
Driving home I called my oldest daughter just to chat. (I spend a lot of time in the car!!) I had just got a new listing and sold a new construction home. Real estate is a difficult career. It is not as easy as some people believe. I was sharing with her that some days I am very discouraged. She began to share words she said I had told her her whole life. Don't give up; it takes hard work, perseverance. It makes me proud and ENCOURAGES me that she was listening and paying attention all those years.
I hope you are encouraged by my words today and that you may encourage others.
