Encouragement is so important, especially when things are difficult. I think we all crave encouraging words sometimes. Even the most confident of us sometimes need validation and to know that someone is paying attention.
There are times when I feel invisible and almost taken for granted. Mostly, I suppose, I just feel sorry for myself sometimes.
A month or so ago, at work, one of my coworkers said, “Thanks for being you.” I didn’t know what to say, because I hadn’t said anything I thought was particularly meaningful. She was just having a rough day and I listened for a moment, then said something that made her laugh. It was nice to be appreciated for being me, and encouraged me to continue being the best “me” that I am.
Writing is a very discouraging hobby/ job/ calling. Most of what I write gets rejected. Repeatedly. People read my blogs but don’t leave comments, so I don’t know if people love my blog, hate my blog, or just click on it as part of some grand alien conspiracy. I write for myself first and foremost, but sometimes just having someone “like” my blog can be the highlight of my day.
I try to encourage other writers. I visit their blogs and comment. I try to follow people when I like what they’ve written, though honestly, it’s an easy way to spread myself too thin.
“Flatter me, and I may not believe you. Criticize me, and I may not like you. Ignore me, and I may not forgive you. Encourage me, and I will not forget you. Love me and I may be forced to love you.”
-William Arthur Ward
I love this quote, and I really believe it. Sure, we all like to be flattered, but most of us don’t buy it (I don’t). I can’t live on a diet of criticism. I want to be noticed, but instead of complimented, I want to be encouraged. “Thanks for being you” is a comment I won’t forget.
So if you’re visiting me today, thanks for stopping by. And thanks for being you.
Doree Weller 