The Power of Encouragement

I love this story from Scott Adams, the creator of the hilarious Dilbert cartoon:

 

“You don’t have to be a ‘person of influence’ to be influential. In fact, the most influential people in my life are probably not even aware of the things they’ve taught me.

 

When I was trying to become a syndicated cartoonist, I sent my portfolio to one cartoon editor after another—and received one rejection after another. One editor even called to suggest that I take art classes. Then Sarah Gillespie, an editor at United Media and one of the real experts in the field, called to offer me a contract. At first, I didn’t believe her. I asked if I’d have to change my style, get a partner—or learn how to draw. But she believed that I was already good enough to be a nationally syndicated cartoonist.

 

Her confidence in me completely changed my frame of reference: It altered how I thought about my own abilities. This may sound bizarre, but from the minute I got off the phone with her, I could draw better. You can see a marked improvement in the quality of the cartoons I drew after that conversation.”*

 

One positive person who believes in us, one visionary, a spouse who speaks a kind word at just the right time, a wise teacher, one soul who has the ability to see into OUR souls and validate who we are and the giftedness that we have - that person can change our lives forever.

 

Seize the opportunity to be that person for someone else today!

 

*Source: Scott Adams, Fast Company Magazine online