Want to Make a Difference? Be a People Builder

I read a variety of things.  Lately, it has been inspiring words from Joel Osteen, an American pastor and author, whose weekly televised sermons are seen by tens of millions of viewers in more than 100 countries.  Osteen recently wrote about the importance of being a People Builder, which I think resonates with many of us today especially in light of worldwide events.

Osteen states that the word encourage means ‘to urge forward.’  When we have someone we believe in, someone we’re urging forward, we’re helping them achieve their goals and dreams.  In terms of how you encourage someone, Osteen advises that you study that person and identify what he or she does well.  What excites him?  What are her strengths?  An encourager sees things in others that they often can’t see in themselves.  A simple compliment or a single word of encouragement can give a person the confidence he or she needs to take another step forward.

My favorite part of what I read?  Osteen believes we all have the ability to stir up someone’s dreams by giving them permission to succeed.  That we can light a fire on the inside that glows for a lifetime.  When you take time to believe in someone, your words can become a seed.  You never know the impact a note or a kind word of encouragement can have, and I agree wholeheartedly. 

Jill, What Can I Do?  Be a People Builder.  Right now, decide who you are going to urge forward.  Then, study that person and find things in them that that may not see in themselves.  Then act.  A compliment, word of encouragement, or note may be all they need to help them achieve their goals and dreams.  Now that’s adding value.