Encouragement: Why I Need More Than a Paycheck

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I need encouragement. For someone who sees the glass half full and opportunity during the tough times, I am not a natural encourager. That’s not an excuse, however. If I need encouragement, why shouldn’t those around me need it as well? They do. We all do. Here’s what I know encouragement does for me:

Why I need encouragement

It motivates me. A simple “well done,” a pat on the back, or a nod of the head gives me enough motivation to want to do it again, and better. How many times you and I have done a menial task because we wanted to please someone that matters to us? We do it all the time. Those of us with children do it every day.

It abates my insecurities. I remember feeling defeated in a job that was not going well. “I don’t have what it takes to get this done,” I had reasoned. I was working for a perceptive man, who came to my office and said, “Hang in there. You are where you need to be. Just keep doing what you’re doing.” That was all I needed to continue.  He was right. Things got better, much better. I got a raise not long after that.

It reminds me of my humanity. Machines need energy to operate. You give them fuel and they perform. Humans need more than energy. We need purpose, and a reason. An encouraging word will fill my emotional tank when a paycheck cannot. It reminds us that God has created us to be more than machines working towards a goal. We are complex human beings in need of community that supports and encourages us.

How important is encouragement in your life? Are you getting enough?

 

  • Jeff Teague

    For a time I decided that I didn’t need anyone’s approval in my life. I put my head down and got the job done. But that didn’t work. I was burning out fast. You are right, we need community and the encouragement of those who matter. 

  • Mark

    I’m in a bad place right now. My work environment is driven by fear and intimidation. No encouragement here.  All my boss does is let us know that if we don’t get the job done on time, he has several resumes waiting for jobs. I’m looking for another job, but it’s not easy. 

  • Cheryl Stevens

    Love this.  I am a natural encourager, and I value the benefits of this gift as a wife, mom and ministry leader.   I see it as investment in the Kingdom of God.  I have watched what God does with a simple heartfelt word of encouragement in a teen who lacks self confidence, but is willing to try.   It’s invaluable to leaders to learn how to encourage those we lead.

  • It is paramount and no, I don’t get enough. I don’t know if you’ve read 5 Love Languages, but mine is words of affirmation. With that in mind I try to be very purposed and verbally appreciate and encourage others. Even a simple “thank you” can go a long way.

  • I need encouragement big time and no, I definitely don’t get enough. 
    I’ve always found it funny that I am a pretty big encourager. I dole out encouragement on a regular basis, constantly telling my students how good they are doing or that I’m proud of them, but to encourage myself? Not so much. 

    A little encouragement goes a long way with me. Like you mentioned above, it really pushes me to continue moving forward even when things are difficult.

  • I needed this today.

  • Jeff Teague

    For a time I decided that I didn’t need anyone’s approval in my life. I put my head down and got the job done. But that didn’t work. I was burning out fast. You are right, we need community and the encouragement of those who matter.

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