Times are tough. We all have a tendency to do some 'navel gazing' in these times. So instead of seeing a small world (you), how about opening our eyes to others? Let me ask a couple of questions and make a brief challenge.

1. Ever needed to be encouraged or uplifted? Welcome to the club! Studies show over and over again that we all need an atta boy or atta girl from time to time. It increases personal self-esteem, team work, trust, loyalty, and performance.

2. Ever missed an opportunity to encourage someone else?

If the answer to one or both is 'yes', welcome to the club. As human beings we fail miserably at encouraging others, especially those closest to us. We miss opportunities every day to encourage someone else. Don't let another day pass without encouraging someone. I don't care who you are, make it your ambition each day to encourage someone. Emails are fine (cheap) but personal phone calls and hand written notes speak volumes for encouragement. Better yet, how about a face to face meeting where you say "I appreciate your work" or "You make a difference to me, this company, this organization".

Challenge: On your calendar every day this month put a daily reminder to send a note of encouragement to someone. Be a 'change agent' and watch what happens to others.

rb

Just listened to Chuck Swindoll (Insight for Living). He commented, "Roots grow deep when the winds are strong". And,  "tough times define us and refine us."

That's a good word.