Multipliers or Subtracters; What Will You Be?

According to the dictionary, encourage means to inspire with courage, spirit, or hope. I can recall specific events in my life when someone believed in me and provided well needed hope and encouragement. In many ways these events helped to shape my direction and confidence to move forward under difficult circumstances. I wonder what would have happened to me if they had chosen to keep those thoughts to themselves? Leadership expert John Maxwell states in the May 2011 issue of Success Magazine that there are multipliers and subtracters. He also refers to multipliers as enlargers. Subtracters suck the life and energy out of a room when they arrive. Enlargers build up their team by believing, serving and adding value to others. I am surprised at the number of people who try to motivate through fear and intimidation. These tactics tend to stir up resentment, destroy moral and seldom get the expected results. Studies consistently show that, almost more than anything else, workers greatly appreciate being recognized for a job well done, and knowing they can get that recognition motivates them to work harder and better. What benefit can come from holding back an encouraging word from someone who has earned it? Parents should not hold back praise from their children when it is deserved. It saddens me to hear the number of people who are adults still trying to gain their parents approval. The course of someone's life can be altered by a sincere, specific word of encouragement. Are you going to be a multiplier or a subtracter? Have a great week! Pierce P.S. If you would like to read more on encouragement from John Maxwell, read this article entitled Encouragement Changes Everything.