2 of 6

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

go of the past, but other times it's important to remember the past. For instance, if you are in the middle of a tough time with a friend, remember all of the good times you've had with that friend in the past. If you are concerned about having the money to pay our rent, remind youself of the fact that you have always managed to keep a roof over your head in the past, and that somehow things will work out this time as well. When remembering the past, sometimes it is great fun to think way back, even to childhood, about fun, interesting, and exciting experiences. Often this makes me laugh, and it also helps me to see how rich and wonderful my life has been - and no doubt will continue to be.

4. List your worries.

This may seem like a strange way to be encouraged, and I'll admit that initially listing my worries sometimes causes me stress! However, listing my worries is often the first step in dealing with the issues at hand, and as I deal with them, I'm encouraged. Also, as I list my worries - especially if write in my journal about them - I often see that they are not as big and scary as I thought. Often, when I journal about my concerns or the things I'm frustrated about, I find that I am blowing things out of proportion and that the situation isn't nearly as bad as I initially thought. That's encouraging!

Remind yourself of encouragement from others. Yes, this article is about encouraging yourself, but sometimes you can do that by remembering past encouragement from others. Perhaps no one has done anything to encourage you this past week or even month, but we've all had bits of encouragement from others in the past. One of the best things you can do is keep an "encouragment folder." Put all kinds of bits of encouragement into that folder! If someone sends you a card with an encouraging word, rather than tossing it, stick it in the folder. When someone sends you an especially kind word on one of your articles, copy and paste that into a Word document and save it. Add bits of encouragement to the document as you receive them. And don't forget to also type in words of encouragement that have been spoken to you as well.

Be encouraged today!

Learn more about this author, Rebecca Livermore.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about How to encourage yourself?
We want to hear your view. Write now!