Wednesday 21 May 2014

Systems of Encouragement



Emotional intelligence has become the new commodity essential in the successful execution of goals and achievements of tasks and objectives. An individual’s ability to be aware of their emotions and channel positive energy towards a vision increases their productivity as a student or employee. But perhaps being sensitive to ones feelings is inadequate, perhaps in reality, a person yields more when they obtain approval of their ideas, support for intended innovations or when someone believes in them.
Structures of encouragement help one feel, well eh, encouraged!!! To this end, I propose that we all identify or be more cogniscent of the support systems around us which can always give us that boost that we need to carry on. Some common support systems include the following:

     i.        Better halves and spouses
   ii.        Siblings
 iii.        Friends
  iv.        Places of worship
    v.        Colleagues and classmates
  vi.        Elders and mentors

It is important for one to associate themselves with individuals and groups that help progress them in one way or the other. Perhaps for the extrovert, they may pitch an idea to their counterparts and bounce it off of their minds, and get their two cents as to either adopt it or not, view it in a new light or simply polish it up. For the introvert, they may simply present a scenario, hypothetically and draw friends or colleagues experiences and opinions around the issue at hand. Unfortunately, feedback is not always positive, sometimes it may be negative or destructive, but surely in every statement presented there lies a perspective (informed or ignorant) that can help shape how one can execute their innovation.

We all need someone who has faith in us, as it gives us the peace to continue, knowing that out there, there is someone who believes in us. It may take a simple smile, a gesture of love or the statement: “You can do it!!!” Even in the doldrums of despair and all else looks bleak, an echo of this ensemble “hang in there” can provide the right harmony necessary before one lets loose of the rope and lets go. Perhaps in our moments of despair, when we feel most vulnerable and weak, is where the biggest potential for our strength in character lies.

For instance, when I was penning this article, I asked for my friend’s thoughts on the issue of encouragement, and some encouraged me. One sentiment that was echoed was that encouragement pushes you in the right direction and gives you the confidence in yourself and your abilities because you know someone believes in you and your vision. Another sentiment I got in my mini investigation from my confidante when I asked how one felt encouragement helps them in achieving their dreams was:

“I think encouragement accelerates or gives you momentum to keep on keeping on, because we seldom give up when no one is by the side-lines cheering us on”

Sometimes, encouragement may be stimulated by self through reading. When one seats down and engages in the act of reading, they interact with their creative side, often informing it with a rich exploration of a phenomena based on facts and opinions. Literature The World English Dictionary defines encouragement as being to inspire (someone) with the courage or confidence (to do something) or to stimulate (something or someone to do something) by approval or help. 




So go out there, support someone, encourage them, establish yourself as a support system and become a source of encouragement. Be the inspiration that boosts confidence by lending an ear, if it cannot be the words, let it be the action of being there. Presence is a great present to present a sibling with.

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