If we are not intentional, it’s easy to fall prey to unhealthy environments where negativity, complaining, and criticism become the norm rather than the exception.  The choice to give myself to an atmosphere of encouragement is one of the ways in which we can keep from falling prey to unhealthy life environments.  I have to make the choice to be an encouraging person.  Like so much in life, the kind of life that we cultivate with others, will be the kind of life that is reciprocated back to us.  If I want to receive encouragement, I have to be a person who gives encouragement.

When it comes to cultivating an atmosphere of encouragement I believe that it starts with our thinking.  If we can get it right in how we think about people – that all people have value and meaning – it will change the atmosphere of our lives.  I will now be in a mental and emotional place to be deliberate with my actions toward others.  Therefore, rather than looking for the negative in others – I look to find the positive.  I look for ways to bring out the best in others – to affirm and to build.

Are you cultivating an atmosphere of encouragement with your life?  Thoughts?

Who are you encouraging?