Deployment thoughts, wednesday word

Give a little…

Movin' it with Michelle

Encouragement!!!!

This is my first time doing the Wednesday word linkup with Deb Runs.  I’ve wanted to jump in, but sometimes I couldn’t come up with a post, and others I just couldn’t find the time.  But this week’s word, ENCOURAGE sparked a little fire in my soul, so I just had to take the time to write. And I even got it done, and scheduled to post, EARLY!  🙂 Please make sure to check out her blog, and all the other Wednesday worders!  🙂  (I know, that’s NOT a word, LOL)
WednesdayWordScrabble
What does it mean to me, to ENCOURAGE or to be ENCOURAGED.
Quite simple, actually.  For me, it’s lifting others up when they are struggling, for sure.  Whether it be in training, at work, or just life in general I know we ALL struggle and a good word of encouragement is always a GREAT thing to receive in my opinion.
Some ways I like to encourage or lift other’s UP:
Smile and say good morning/afternoon when you see someone.  Every day as I walk through the halls of the hospital both before and after work, I make sure to make eye contact with at least 2-3 people and give them well wishes and a smile.  Even when I don’t feel like it, I do it, and guess what-it ALWAYS makes me feel better to get that smile in return.  Remember, you never know what happened just 5 minutes earlier in that person’s day, and what a difference a smile can make to their life.  I’ve been on the receiving end of those smiles, and trust me when I say it can change a person’s life.
Take the time to reach out and ask people, “How are you doing?”  And when they respond, really listen!!!  We are all “busy” but no one is ever THAT busy to encourage someone that might be having a rough day.
High five/smile at passing runners!  This ALWAYS gives me an awesome boost when I might be struggling on a long run.
Make that phone call/text to encourage someone who might be going through a tough time in their life, or are struggling with their goals.  Sometimes just knowing someone is there for you can make such a huge difference. I can tell you that while dealing with the loneliness of deployment, having someone reach out to me means SOOOOOOO much.
And quite importantly, don’t forget to encourage/cheer for those who are SUCCEEDING in their life, even if you are not where you want to be in your life.  Quite often celebrating the joys of others really helps ENCOURAGE our own well being.
One of my dearest friends and me, at the finish of her first marathon.
One of my dearest friends and me, at the finish of her first marathon.
Those are my tips for encouraging others, do you have any you’d like to share?
Cheers!
Michelle

Published by Movin' it with Michelle

My name is Michelle and I am a retired Air Force Master Sergeant. I have found a passion for running, cooking, writing, photography and all things that move my love for life! I've ran 3 full marathons, with a PR of 4:25, and 17 half marathons with a PR of 2:00:11 (yup-missed sub 2 by 11 seconds, lol). Thanks for joining me on my journey!

20 thoughts on “Give a little…”

  9. This is a great post. I especially like this part about really listening. It’s so easy to get caught up in the motions and not really pay attention to the others in our lives. Great reminder 🙂

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  10. I think encouraging others is so good for both parties involved. I know I always feel better whether I’m encouraging or being encouraged.

    Thanks so much for linking up! We loved having you aboard, and hope you join us again soon!

    Liked by 1 person

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