Learn the art of needle felting and create decorative pumpkins at the Warsaw Community Public Library at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 2. Register in advance at the library’s reference desk. Pictured is Jama Weaver. Photo provided by Warsaw Community Public Library.

By Melissa Chapman
Cataloging Supervisor
Warsaw Community Public Library

WARSAW — In 2007, a group of university students from Arkansas came up with the idea of a “National Encouragement Day” because they saw a “lack of encouragement” as one of the biggest obstacles faced by youth. Arkansas made it a holiday, on Sept. 12, then not long after, it spread nationwide.

This is dedicated to encouraging and having a positive impact on those around us. The best thing about this day is that you can make someone happy by simply saying a few words of encouragement. Your words have the power to lift someone when they are down. They also have the power to motivate someone who might be struggling or encourage someone to pick themselves back up after a setback. A small act of encouragement could be the spark that changes a loved one’s perspective. There are many ways to encourage others, and it’s a well-intentioned aim to practice the attitudes and habits of an “encourager” each day. Below are some ideas to help you encourage people.

Write a note. A sticky note on the mirror or a folded note in a lunchbox can go a long way in adding a little cheer to someone’s day. Handwritten notes are extra thoughtful. Send a text. If you’re a distance away send a quick text to let them know you’re thinking of them. Make a list of five to 10 positive things about someone. Include things you appreciate about them and find ways to mention something they are good at; some things can be serious, and others can be fun. Give someone your full attention when you are with them. With the simple message of “You are important,” it shows you value your time with them. While words of affirmation are good, gifts can be meaningful, and they do not need to be expensive. A coffee for a co-worker, a candy bar for a friend — it’s not only a physical pick-me-up, but it shows you were thinking of them.

Last but not least, be available when someone needs to talk, whether in person, a video chat, or a phone call. Just listening can be enough.

And don’t forget to look after yourself. Prioritize your well-being, because if you can’t encourage yourself, how in the world are you going to encourage someone else?

Warsaw Community Public Library’s hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Tuesday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday; and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Come in and check us out.