Culture in Relationships

Commit to Encourage

Sometimes it is easy to act one way at the office, but does the ìrealî you come out after work ends for the day? One of the toughest tests of good character is how you treat those closest to you—particularly at home.

Your attitude is guaranteed to affect those around you. When it comes to attitude, you probably fall into one of three major categories. Take a few moments to read over each type of person below and consider which category you fit into. Who do you desire to be known as?

Energy-givers are people whose words, actions, and attitudes make them an encouragement to others. Their positive outlook is contagious—so contagious that people often feel energized just by being around them. They light up a room whenever they go into it.

Energy-wasters are simply along for the ride. They have a healthy mind and body but rely on others for inspiration and motivation. They are the proverbial “bump on a log.”

Energy-takers seem to drain energy from others. They tend to be self-centered, overly critical, and resistant to instruction. People often feel tired after being with this kind of person. Energy-takers light up a room whenever they leave it.

Examine the chart below and see how your “energy level” measures up. Which areas could you boost with some added focus and effort? Make it your goal to light up a room when you go in—not when you leave.