Two weeks ago (in the May 17th BackPage [link opens new window]), we asked how we could adequately say thanks to financial supporters: Those who make possible the work we do. Today we face a different question, prompted again by a hard-working cross-cultural witness in North Africa. Today’s question is — how do we best encourage our peers. Specifically, how can we add fuel to the fire of those who are on the right track? How can we affirm the guys who “get it”, while motivating others through their example? Our friend from North African wrote, “It’s no coincidence that everyone wins more games at home than on the road. The fans are cheering for them there. So the question is — How can we best cheer for our outstanding workers? Any ideas? If so, please use the comment box below. And thanks for helping us make Brigada Today useful for team leaders throughout the world!
Doug
I am aware of one church which regularly sends teams of people to the same country to encourage laborers and to assist them (the workers) and to do ministries that the long-term people could only do at great risk. The result is mutual blessing. The visitors are now able to plan trips without burdening the long-term folks with planning short events.
The simplest and most basic way to encourage is by simple recognition and affirmation. Be aware of the good work your teammates are doing: their Christian example, their devotional life, their knowledge of God’s word, their dedication to the task, etc. Then be sure that they know you appreciate them. This can be done is small ways and sometimes in big ways.
I agree that telling colleagues how well they are doing in their areas of strength and of challenge can really build them up. Small successes in tough areas need to be celebrated to give energy to keep on keeping on (language, relationships, etc). This is true with our national colleagues too. In close relationships, 5 positives for every corrective seems a good balance – so that we CAN hear the correctives when they are needed! Involving kids in celebrating other people’s good points is a great way to begin this early. Sometimes as a team we would pass a paper round the group for each person, each one adding an ‘appreciation or encouragement’ for their colleague which they could keep and reflect on.