We've gotten really good at complaining. We've become experts at dragging one another down, bashing each other on social media, and rolling our eyes at pretty much everything. We can screenshot a post or message and tear a person apart in a group chat within 20 seconds and we subconsciously judge, ridicule and mock people multiple times each day. Combine this with a society that is obsessed with social media and who is annoyed with everyone and by everyone and we have created a destructive world that is almost impossible to flourish in.
But it doesn't have to be this way.
We possess the power as human beings to build up and encourage others. We can enrich the lives of others by simply being boldly kind. We can choose to be people who help others build their self-esteem, pursue their goals and gain necessary confidence to be happy and successful. And it doesn't take much to make this type of change happen.
From now on, when you see someone post about their weight loss progress or workout selfies, like them and comment something nice. Rather than mock them in a message or tweet, be happy that they are taking steps to pursue a healthy lifestyle and stop tearing them down for being "cocky" or "arrogant."
When someone tells you about their awesome test score or grade, be as excited as they are! Sure, you could get annoyed and tell them to be humble, but that accomplishes nothing. Encourage them and be excited that they are experiencing success.
When someone posts a picture of their vacation, new job, internship, or apartment, don't be jealous. Be proud to know such amazing people and congratulate them on these new opportunities.
Sure, we could easily attack these people for bragging. We could accuse them of cheating their way to the top. We could roll our eyes and be annoyed by them.
But, we could also use the same amount of energy to be kind. Often, there is a reason people are posting or sharing these aspects of their lives. Sometimes it's because they don't have or never have had a person in their life who has shown them that they care. Sometimes it's because they struggle so much with their confidence and decisions that they just want to be reassured by others. And sometimes it is because they want to brag. No matter the reason, we could all use a little more encouragement and kindness. So, start spreading encouragement and support to those around you and stop the negativity.
