Don’t be afraid to correct others

How often on daily basis do you see someone you care about do things or say things that you know are wrong or that they shouldn’t be doing? How often do you want to encourage someone or help them and you just let it go?

I believe that too often we don’t give constructive criticism because we are scared of hurting others feelings. I know that I don’t do a good at this because I don’t want to make people mad. What I have realized though is that the times where I did correct someone or pushed them in the right direction, they always appreciated it and I always felt better about myself. 

I understand that this has a lot to do with personality. Some people are really good at this and others aren’t....but the fact of the matter is that sometimes the most difficult conversations turn out to be the most rewarding. 

There have been numerous times in my life where I have had co-workers, friends, parents, and coaches do this for me. Specially, I think about a lunch I had with one of my best friends back when I was in college. If he would have been too scared to hurt my feelings, my life could look completely different than it is today. Yeah, I remember it initially hurting when he first started talking to me, but I quickly realized the people in your life who are willing to have those extremely difficult conversations with you are the ones who typically care about you the most. 

One conversation can change the course of someone’s life. 

These, then, are the things you should teach encourage and rebuke with all authority. Don’t let anyone despise you. (Titus 2:15)

We must teach, encourage, and correct others when necessary. 

I encourage you to have that mindset this week. It doesn’t have to be a life-altering conversation. If you become aware of something in someone’s life that you care about that will improve their outlook, outcomes, or positivity, tell them! Don’t just be a spectator expecting them to make changes on their own. Obviously, there will be times where you can’t just barge in and correct someone. I would highly recommend praying about it before you do it in the first place. Pray for God’s strength and wisdom so that you have the right words to say. 

This week, let’s attack it with a mindset that we are all on the same team. Everybody loves everybody and everybody wants to see everybody succeed.