Triathletes, marathon runners and the power of encouragement
I was at the Raby Bay triathlons on Sunday in Brisbane, not competing in them now. As much as I’m into exercise, I’m not a triathlete by any means. I was there to support my fiancé and his friends.
What an inspiring day.. Over one thousand people of all ages pushing themselves mentally, physically and emotionally. When I first arrived the category that was racing were people mainly in their 60s!!
How cool is that? I know people in their twenties who moan if they’ve to walk more than 10 minutes and these people were 60+ doing a triathlon!
However, the main message I took from being there was the power of encouragement. Seeing people line the streets to shout competitors on, sometimes people they knew and a lot of the time people they didn’t.
I was clapping like a lunatic (on my own at one stage while the others were racing) for everyone that went by me because I could see the lift they got from encouragement. During his cycle stage I shouted out to my fiancé that he was doing great. He then sped up and passed lots of other bikes when he heard his name. Afterward he said he got a real boost from it which helped him speed up!
It reminded me of our mate Craig who ran the New York marathon last year. There was one stage that he ‘hit the wall’ and didn’t think he’d be able to finish the marathon. He said it was a horrible feeling and he was terrified he’d have to stop. Suddenly lots of spectators shouted out his name (as his name was on his shirt). Craig said it changed everything for him- he went from feeling exhausted and that he was unable to make it to feeling great and running his way to the finish line.
How powerful are words of encouragement?
We don’t realise how our simple words of encouragement can positively impact those we speak them to.
Think back on your own life, how many times have words of encouragement helped you or even changed your life?
How many people can you encourage more- from yourself, to family, friends and co-workers?
Here are some wise words to ponder:
“A word of encouragement during a failure is worth more than an hour of praise after success” Anon
“Nine tenths of education is encouragement.” Anatole France
“You need to be aware of what others are doing, applaud their efforts, acknowledge their successes, and encourage them in their pursuits. When we all help one another, everybody wins.” Jim Stovall
“One word or a pleasing smile is often enough to raise up a saddened and wounded soul.” Therese of Lisieux
“There is nothing better than the encouragement of a good friend” Katharine Butler Hathaway