ENCOURAGEMENT WEEK 4: WORDS INSPIRE
“We set sail on this new sea because there is new knowledge to be gained, and new rights to be won, and they must be won and used for the progress of all people” - JFK Moon Speech
When JFK cast vision to rally the whole country, he didn’t only say “let’s go to the moon, we can do this.” He used the power of hope, and aspiration to inspire dreams of a new and better world. He was calling a nation to unite behind a hard task and planting ideas this could be about something greater. It’s a classic tool used by leaders and influencers. Paint a picture of a future state, create desire for it, then encourage someone to do what’s needed to achieve it.
Sometimes ideas for the future are spoken to us in surprising ways. I was 23 years old when, on a sunny 4th of July my wife and I sat in some friends’ backyard, eating bbq. Another young man I’d only met that day found out I worked at Nike and simply said, “you could go get your MBA.” I remember the moment. I’d never considered getting a masters in business. At the time I thought I wanted to go another path. In that moment I thought, “Yeah! I’ll do that.” I did and it became part of of a multi-decade run in my career.
Sometimes it takes someone outside of us to give us ideas and dreams. Once heard, they’re internalized and become a part of our own path. Whether it was JFK’s daring vision and the hope of a new era of human rights, or a simple encouragement to pursue further education, words have the power to create the future.
This week you’ll continue stepping into your profound role of speaking uplifting words to your family. This continues the work from week 2 when you spoke words of identity. In that week you gave “you are” messages to them. Now you’ll help them see how their identity, skills and strengths can be a part of their future.
This is not to say you know who they will be or what they will do. Your task is not to map out their life. What you’re doing is giving them ideas, and hopes. You’re going to be filling them with confidence and boldness to believe in themselves. You’re becoming the voice behind them saying “you can do it!”
Weekly Assignment:
Select of at least one thing about each family member’s identity and talk with them about how that can be used in their future. This can be done making statements to them or daydreaming together. You’ll be balancing giving them ideas with helping them have their own ideas and dreams. The goal isn’t to reach any conclusions. The goal is for them to hear you saying who they are is unique and valuable. You’re inviting them to dream that their identity and talents can benefit themselves and others, becoming a part of their journey. You’re giving them a positive view of self and a mindset that who they are is valuable.
Here are some examples to get you thinking:
You’re good at noticing others’ needs. I could see you being someone who brings groups together for a shared purpose. Like a coach, counselor, consultant, social worker, minister, etc…
Wow, you’re really good at explaining things to people, I wonder if you’d make a good teacher, marketer, writer, etc…
You’re so creative, the world needs more creative people. Have you ever dreamed of using your creativity someday? How have you dreamed about that?
The ways you are able to stick to your beliefs, stay strong against pressure and never quit are so admirable. Have you considered how those are leadership qualities?
I’ve noticed you’re strategic. You seem to be able to figure out the rules to games and map a course to winning. Did you know both businesses and non-profits use strategy?
You make me laugh so much. That’s such a gift. You could be a comedian or a writer.
The way you understand computers impresses me. Did you know people need those skills for all kinds of things? Programmers, scientists, manufacturing, making apps, and so much more.
You’re so good with kids. I wonder if you’d want to help in church, or at a local organization to help kids.
Everyone wants to believe they have a bright future. Help your children and partner see who they are, and what they bring to the table can create that future.