The Amazing Impact of Encouragement

This week, I had the pleasure of delivering Mental Resilience Masterclass 1 to Springfield Training’s staff and their clients in Leeds. The response to the session was outstanding, and it made me realise just how much I enjoy what I do.
 
The interaction and energy in the room were terrific, and the feedback encouraged me. Sometimes, words of encouragement are needed to keep you going, and this is certainly the case for me and most people I know.
 
I work hard to deliver these sessions to the best of my ability, and the feedback indicates the standard of my sessions. My entire driving force behind doing what I do is to help people make changes in their lives to help them deal more effectively with stress and to live happier, healthier lives.
 
Springfield created a LinkedIn and Facebook post after the event, and when I read it, I was truly amazed. It made me feel warm and fuzzy inside. Sometimes, we just need to experience the simple things in life.
 
This is what they said:
 
“We want to extend our thanks to John Dabrowski for delivering an incredibly empowering masterclass on mental resilience! 

In these challenging times, cultivating resilience is not just a skill but a necessity. John’s insightful session provided invaluable strategies and perspectives that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on all who attended.

His unique ability to connect deeply with the audience, sharing personal anecdotes and practical tips, truly resonated with everyone. Delegates walked away feeling not only inspired but equipped with newfound tools to navigate life’s inevitable ups and downs with grace and strength.

Thank you, John, for your passion, wisdom, and dedication to empowering others. Your message of resilience has ignited a spark within us all, reminding us of our innate capacity to overcome obstacles and thrive. 

Let’s continue to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and resilience.”
 
 
Dante Gabriel Rossetti
 
I came across this article about someone who wasn’t encouraged in his early life, and it completely changed the trajectory of his life.
 
Dante Gabriel Rossetti, the famous 19th-century poet and artist, was once approached by an elderly man.
 
The old fellow had some sketches and drawings that he wanted Rossetti to look at and tell him if they were any good or if they at least showed potential talent.
 
Rossetti looked over them carefully. After the first few, he knew that they were worthless, but Rossetti was a kind man; he told the elderly man as gently as possible that the pictures were without much value and showed little talent.
 
He was sorry, but he could not lie to the man. The man was disappointed but seemed to expect Rossetti’s judgment.
 
The old man apologised for taking up Rossetti’s time but asked him to look at a few more drawings.
 
Rossetti looked over the second batch of sketches and immediately became enthusiastic over the talent they revealed. “These,” he said, “oh, these are good.”
 
“This young student has a great talent. He should be given every help and encouragement. He has a great future.”
 
Rossetti could see that the old fellow was deeply moved.
 
“Who is this fine young artist?” he asked. “Your son?”
 
“No,” said the old man sadly.
 
“It is me – 40 years ago. If only I had heard your praise, then! For you see, I got discouraged and gave up – too soon.”
 
 
We all benefit from receiving encouragement.
 
I believe that we all need encouragement, and without it, we don’t fulfil our true potential. Encouragement improves our energy levels, mindset, motivation, and ability to continue amid adversity.
 
 
The top five benefits of receiving encouragement are:
 
Increased Confidence: Encouragement boosts self-belief and confidence, empowering individuals to take on challenges and pursue their goals with a positive mindset.
 
Motivation and Persistence: Encouragement provides the motivation needed to persevere through obstacles and setbacks, helping individuals stay focused and committed to their endeavours.
 
Improved Performance: Being encouraged enhances performance by instilling a sense of belief in one’s abilities and fostering a mindset of growth and improvement.
 
Enhanced Well-being: Encouragement promotes feelings of positivity and optimism, leading to greater overall well-being and resilience in the face of adversity.
 
Strengthened Relationships: Receiving encouragement strengthens bonds with others, demonstrating support and belief in their abilities and fostering trust and camaraderie.
 
 
Thoughts for the week. 

1. When was the last time you encouraged someone?
2. This week, see how many people you can encourage. They could be fellow workers, family members, people serving you in a shop or anyone you interact with.
3. Know that every word of encouragement you share can have a lifelong impact on the person you encourage.
4. Let this become a habit you maintain for the rest of your life. 

 
Well, that’s it for this week. Have a wonderful weekend, and keep believing.
 
Warm regards

John