As I ran across a race finish line a few weeks ago, I reflected on several energy-surging moments. I actually felt and ran faster and stronger at certain race points. Which ones were they? The moments I received encouragement from people around me – fellow runners and race-watchers. High-fives from complete strangers, seeing someone on the sidewalk point to me and yell, “You got this. Keep running,” and looking at all the signs like “Worst Parade Ever,” and “Chafe Now; Brag Later,” all made a difference. It changed my pace, my attitude, my outcome.

The same is true in work and life. Encouragement – in many forms – changes paces, attitudes, and outcomes. What kind of encouragement are you offering today?