encouragement_football_player_sEncouragement is paramount in building up the team and each other.

Regardless of the sport, many of our weekends are spent screaming at the top of our lungs across some field or court encouraging athletes to do their best. We hear statements such as, “you can do it Jimmy!”, “keep your head up Kim”, and “the game isn’t over yet!” We know the practice of encouragement is evident when we witness the athlete picking up the pace, becoming more aggressive and hustling during every play. In contrast, we also hear fans, coaches and parents saying things such as, “you guys stink!”, “check the lost and found for your game son!” and “catch the (expletive) ball!”

If most of the players return to the game with looks of dejection, more than likely encouragement was not on the agenda during the half-time speech. How will the team perform if you are pushing out dope when times get tough? All of our thoughts whether good or bad originate in our hearts and minds. Invariably, those thoughts will lead to emotions and actions, that will tear us down or build us up.

A bit of encouragement goes a long way. Leaders that encourage their followers create a positive energy within the team that becomes contagious. If there is no fire in the bosom of the team, the leaders must be the igniters. If the fire is already started, the leaders become the gasoline! Sounds pretty simple, right? So why do we expect people to perform at high levels if we don’t take the time to encourage the team? Is there ever a good time for demeaning remarks or inflammatory criticism? How does staying neutral help to bring out the best in your team? Some may say our pay checks should be enough encouragement, but for some extrinsic motivation has a short shelf life.

Are you hyping up hope or dropping dope?  If you really want know, ask your team. Don’t be scared, the truth will set you free.

Correction does much, but encouragement does more. Encouragement after censure is as the sun after a shower.                                    – Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe