How do we encourage others to grow and reach the potential we see in them? We lead the way by accepting their loving words of encouragement.
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We all have an ego, and like us they come in all different shapes and sizes.
And we all know a healthy relationship encourages us to grow and become the best we can be.
The right relationship will come with support, love and also challenges. A partner, good friend and family will challenge you to be the best you can be – and this can be confronting.
Yes, it must be done in a kind, caring way, with nothing but wanting the best for you behind it – but someone who loves you and wants the best for you and will encourage you in this direction.
But mostly we get annoyed; we don’t like to be reminded of things we probably already know we could do better. We know what we should and shouldn’t do in our health, wellbeing, direction and life in general. But we are lazy, we like distractions and all too easily put things off until tomorrow. So when we are given that gentle nudge, instead of seeing the love behind it we get defensive, narky and often angry.
We need to learn to let our guard down and accept the challenge with this support to get us through. Or better yet, disclose what is holding us back and allow someone who wants to be there for you, really be there for you as you work through that growth.
The ego isn’t egotistical. It fronts up, accepts the challenge and works it through.
The best relationships, friendships and families I have seen all have this healthy habit. They are open to the discussion, and when timing is right they allow the growth – but yes understand people need to get there when the time is right for them also.
We just need to be sure when we deliver that encouragement we deliver it with all the love and care that you have in your heart. And when we hear those encouraging words we see that love shining in them. But most of all remember we are human and we get defensive, but we are just doing our best, wanting the best as we love each other.
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This article originally appeared on TaLisa’s Blog senseofyou.com. Follow her on Instagram and Facebook.
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Photo: Renee Barron/Flickr