The Encourager
How do you define "success"?
John Wooden, one of the best coaches of all time, defines success a little differently than most of us. Hint: It isn't about the awards or victories.
I believe others should feel better after spending time with us. Instead of looking for all the faults, let us look for the good that has been done.
It seems like the only joy for some is the practice of criticizing, but slander is a bottomless pit. In fact, Proverbs 10:18 says, "...whoever spreads slander is a fool."
Benjamin Franklin, the great American statesman said, "I will speak ill of no man...and speak all the good I know of everybody."
Dale Carnegie, the author of the international best seller, "How to win friends and influence people", was emphatic that we should not criticize others. He wrote:
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Criticism is dangerous, because it wounds a person’s precious pride, hurts his sense of importance, and arouses resentment. …. Any fool can criticize, condemn and complain— and most fools do. But it takes character and self-control to be understanding and forgiving. - Dale Carnegie |
Great leaders are uplifting.
There's something inspirational and memorable about meeting true leaders. Others should feel better after spending time with us. We are not the kind to put a wet blanket on people's work or festivity. We laugh with people...We are not distant and difficult to relate to.
We find the points of agreement in a conversation,
not the points of disagreement.
I believe others should feel better after spending time with us.
Instead of looking for all the faults or mistakes that may or may not have been made, let us look for the good that has been done.
From Philippians 4:8 "Finally, brothers (and sisters), whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think on these things."
In a very negative world...let us not think of the negativity...but be a positive, possibility thinker....and speak words of encouragement and hope.
Blessings,
Dwaine Lee
Global Action
globalaction.ngo
GLOBAL ACTION
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
This post is from The Encourager, a series of over 100 emails from Global Action's founder, Dwaine Lee, originally sent between 2005-2010. Pastor Lee passed away in 2001, but we believe the words of encouragement are still relevant today. The email above was first sent in September 2005.
Short recap of the international best seller
How To Win Friends and Influence People
by Dale Carnegie
This short animated video captures the key words of wisdom from Dale Carnegie's international best seller, "How to win friends and influence people". Point 1: Be genuinely interested in others. Point 2: Give frequent praise. See the powerful lessons that have led to over 15 million copies being sold. Watch here