Encouragement is one of the most powerful tools in a leader’s toolbox. It costs nothing, but its impact can be transformational. A word of encouragement at the right time can restore confidence, rekindle purpose, and release potential in ways few other things can.
Leadership is about more than strategy, vision, or driving results—at its core, leadership is about people. And people thrive when they feel seen, valued, and supported.
Why Encouragement Matters
In any organization—whether a business, nonprofit, or team—people face challenges, doubts, and the weight of expectations. Encouragement helps lift that weight. It reminds your team of who they are, what they’re capable of, and why their work matters.
Encouraged people bring more of themselves to their work. They show up with greater creativity, resilience, and ownership. When you make encouragement a regular part of your leadership, you help create a culture where people are not only more productive—but also more whole.
So how can you become a leader who encourages well? Here are three practical ways:
1. See the Person Behind the Performance
It’s easy to focus on outcomes—metrics, goals, deadlines. But encouragement begins by seeing the person behind the performance. Ask questions. Listen for more than updates. Notice when someone is carrying something heavy, even if they’re not saying it.
When you see your team as people first—each with a story, strengths, and struggles—you’ll be able to speak life into places they may not even realize need it. A simple “I see how hard you’re working” or “I know this season has been tough, and I admire how you’re showing up” goes a long way.
2. Celebrate Progress, Not Just Results
Most people wait until the big win to offer praise. But encouragement is most powerful when it shows up in the process. Celebrate small wins, acknowledge effort, and highlight growth.
When you say things like, “I’ve noticed how much more confident you’ve become in leading meetings,” or “Your creativity on that project made a real difference,” you’re reinforcing what’s going well. Encouragement like this helps people grow because it builds trust and momentum.
3. Speak to Their Potential
One of the most meaningful things you can do as a leader is speak to someone’s potential—especially when they can’t yet see it themselves. Encouragement isn’t just about saying, “You’re doing great.” It’s also about saying, “I believe in who you’re becoming.”
Great leaders call out what’s possible. They name the gifts and capacities they see in others and invite them to step into more. Sometimes your words will be the nudge that moves someone from stuck to courageous.
scott-lowe.com 
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