How To Encourage Someone With Words
We can encourage someone with words just by telling them we are there for them, asking them what they need and reminding them of their strength.
It can be hard to encourage others, especially when we don’t fully believe that ‘things’ will all work out.
But a few kind words can go a long way in lifting someone’s spirits.
First, before we go into what to say, here are a few tips on how to encourage someone with your words:
1. Be Sincere
The most important thing when encouraging others is to be sincere. If you don’t believe in what you’re saying, the other person won’t either.
Choose your words carefully and make sure they reflect your true feelings and the truth of the situation.
2. Avoid Generic Cliches
Generic encouragement is when you say things like “Everything will be alright” or “It’ll all work out in the end.” Urgh.
These phrases might make the other person feel better for a short while, but they won’t necessarily provide any long-term comfort. Instead, try to be specific with your words of encouragement.
3. Don’t Be Condescending
It’s important to encourage others without making them feel patronized. This can be a delicate balance, but it’s important to find the right tone.
Avoid using phrases like “There, there” or “Don’t worry, it’ll all be over soon”, or “At least this isn’t as bad as what happened to me”.
Instead, try to sound supportive and positive without sounding like you’re talking down to the other person.
4. Avoid making promises you can’t keep
When you’re encouraging someone, it’s important to be honest. Don’t make promises you can’t keep, as this will only end up in disappointment.
Don’t guarantee quick fixes or concrete solutions.
Focus on things you know for sure, like your support and what help you can offer them.
5. Don’t put pressure on the other person
It’s important to encourage others without putting too much pressure on them.
Avoid using phrases like “You can do it!” or “I know you can get through this” or ‘Come on, get back up and out there now.”
Instead, ‘read the room’ and try to focus on offering support and what they need from you right now.
6. Let them know you’re there for them
One of the most important things you can do when encouraging someone is to let them know you’re there for them.
Make it clear that you’re available to help in any way you can, whether that’s just being a listening ear or actually helping them with whatever they’re going through.
What can you say to encourage someone?
When you’re encouraging someone, it’s important to use positive words and phrases.
This can help to create a more positive mindset, shift their perspective and get them looking for opportunities and solutions.
What you say will depend on the context of the situation of course.
Sometimes, a simple ‘I’m here for you’ does the trick and let’s them know you are both aware of their troubles and also there for them.
Other times, a positive, encouraging quote handwritten or via text can also help to inspire and encourage someone.
We’ve included some great examples of both:
Encouraging Phrases Can Include:
- I’m proud of you
- That was a great effort
- You’re doing a great job
- You’re getting better every day
- I’m here for you
- I believe in you
- Never give up
- You can do it!
- Rest, and reset!
- I trust you
- I’m right here for you
Encouraging Words & Quotes
- Encouraging Quotes About Life – To Lift Up Ourselves & Those Around Us
- Comforting Quotes To Inspire & Encourage
- No Matter What Life Throws At You Quotes & Encouraging Words
- Inspirational Words Of Encouragement
- 50+ Words of Encouragement (For Strength in Hard Times)
- How To Comfort Someone Over Text
Sometimes, all we can do is be there and listen, support and remind them of their strength and ability to keep on moving forward.
