The Power of Encouragement

Far too often, we view our role models as superhuman. We act as if they have innate powers that allow them to be perfect all the time. We don’t see them struggle. We don’t see them on the ropes. It is so easy to believe that the insecurities, hardships, and trials of the rest of us face just seem not to apply. It is clear that our culture values the appearance of perfection over authenticity. If you don’t believe me check out the beauty filter on TiKTok.

We must come to the realization that everyone goes through the struggle. Period. I almost titled this article, “The Struggle is Real” because the truth is always distorted by the limelight and our rose-tinted lenses.

Here at The Kodzi Institute we value vulnerability and honesty. So, I want to tell you the story of how it goes for a real person. And because I’m nice (and know you might not finish the article) I will go ahead and give you the moral of the story right here in the beginning.

When I had no more left to give, encouragement kept me going.

So here's the tea.

Recently I have been going through a season of extreme burnout. Simply put, I was overworked. I would wake up and be filled with the burden of every single thing I had to accomplish that day. Then hours and hours spent working till my tired was tired. And then I still had to create content. Now, all that could have been manageable if it was not for this dreaded feeling: insignificance. I was faithfully putting out videos and answering peoples questions via email but at the end of the day it felt like nobody was hearing me. I felt like nobody was being benefited and it took me to a really bad place of not wanting to produce any content at all. This, for me, was a crazy place to be in because TKI has been a dream and passion for years and years now. I couldn’t get myself out of this headspace that my purpose didn’t matter. So why continue?

The turning point was when I got three random messages of encouragement in the space of two weeks. Two complete strangers, one close friend, and a simple text. That’s all it took. When I read the messages I could literally feel my spirit being lifted. That is the power of encouragement. Encouragement reminds us that our purpose matters.

1. More Than Just a Word

Encouragement brings hope. Even if we have the head knowledge that the goals we have are important, right, and worth it, our humanity gets in the way. What I mean is that we have all been living with the constant reinforcement that if something is significant, it gets a reaction. Toddlers feel like they are being ignored when they cry so they throw a screaming fit. We praise those who have one million followers. They laugh if the joke is funny and if they don’t laugh we never tell that joke again. Encouragement is the same way because it allows us to see the significance of our purpose to others.

Encouragement reminds us that we are not alone. It reminds us that we have a support system and that there are people in our corner. Encouragement validates. Encouragement helps us feel seen and appreciated.

2. Belonging is the Secret Ingredient

Community is the cornerstone of humanity. Each one of us has an innate need for belonging, esteem, and acceptance. When you encourage someone you are letting them know that you are part of a community that supports them. It is good to encourage people on their current projects and on their goals for the future. But some of the most powerful words you could ever say to someone are, “I support you as you are.” Encourage and validate the person for who they already are, for the steps they have already taken during their process. True validation is not conditional on future value. An encourager sees worth in the person, as they are.

3. What Are You Living For?

It is vitally important to understand that while encouragement is necessary, it is not the ultimate foundation. A life spent searching for validation, encouragement, and recognition from others is a life spent missing the point. You will forever be chasing and never grasp true self-worth.

Validation, encouragement, and recognition are not bad things. They help spur us on but, ultimately, cannot sustain us. Self-esteem and purpose must come from an innate knowledge rather than external praise. It must come from something greater than our own humanity.

For me, I know that no matter who listens, reads, or sends me messages, I have God on my side. I take strength from knowing that my life and purpose are in His hands. You may feel like your purpose doesn’t matter to anyone. You may feel like nobody sees you for who you are. You may feel like you are all alone. But I am a living testament to the fact that God has never left my side. Even on the darkest days He will never leave you or forsake you (Deut. 31:6).

One of my dreams is to help influence our communities to turn towards a culture of encouragement. This can be in a simple "thank you" or a message about how someone has impacted your life. Whatever form it takes, know that your words hold the power and it could come at just the right moment. It certainly did for me. If you would like to take up the challenge with me, I am asking members of my community (this includes you) to participate in the #encourage1challenge. All it is is sending one encouraging message, to one person, one time every week. That’s it. These small acts have the power to change the world.

If you know someone who would benefit from reading this please share it with them! As always, you can contact me using the email link on the website or on Instagram @papaakodzi. Thank you all for your continued support of The Kodzi Institute! I can’t do it without you.

God Bless,

Papaa Kodzi