Weekly ideas to stimulate reflection, inspire new possibilities and encourage new ways of doing and being.
1. Test the water
This week’s word is: Encouragement
Encouragement is the act of giving someone support, confidence and hope.
The word encouragement comes from the combination of the prefix "en-" meaning “to make” or “to cause” and the noun "courage” which comes from the Latin word “cor” meaning “heart”. So, encouragement essentially means "to give heart" or "to inspire courage" in someone.
What is your definition of encouragement and how do you relate to it? Discuss the question here.
2. Experience the initial wave
To broaden your perspective, take a few minutes to read the following quotes and ideas and notice what comes up for you.
I.
“Be an encourager. The world has plenty of critics already”. Dave Willis
II.
"Encouragement is the fuel on which hope runs". Zig Ziglar
III.
John Maxwell, author of “The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership and Developing the Leader Within You”, believes that, while leadership involves many skills, encouragement is the most important one and he often says that "encouragement is 51% of leadership". In his book, he explains that encouragement:
Builds Trust: Encouraged people feel valued and are more likely to stay loyal and committed.
Boosts Confidence: It increases self-belief, leading to higher motivation and better performance.
Promotes Growth: Encouragement helps individuals overcome challenges and reach their potential.
Creates a Positive Culture: A supportive environment encourages risk-taking, creativity, and collaboration.
Strengthens Relationships: Encouraging leaders build stronger, more trusting connections with their teams.
3. Dive deep
To gain a deeper understanding and spark new discoveries, this week I invite you to reflect on the following question: If the people around you depend on your words for nourishment, are they suffering of malnutrition or are they thriving?
4. Ride your radiant wave
We rise by lifting others. This week, I invite you to offer words of encouragement to those around you. Take note of how it makes you feel, and observe the positive impact it has on both you and those you encourage.
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