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M o n d a y M o r n i n g M o t i v a t i o n W i t h M i k e #46

“Life is all about who speaks life into you. When you speak life into somebody and remind them who they are, it can change the trajectory of their life”
- Emmanuel Acho

I’m sure you’ve all heard about this plant experiment.

While the scientific evidence for plants responding to kindness per se is debatable in the science community, the positive effects of supportive social interactions on human health and well-being are well-documented. Positive communication can improve mental health, strengthen relationships, and foster a strong support system, illustrating the profound impact that kindness and positive reinforcement can have on humans.

One of my all time favorite stories of the how positive and direct words impacted the trajectory of someone’s life is none other than that of our generation’s greatest speaker, Les Brown and how his teacher, Mr Washington changed his life (you have to watch that video).

The Impact of Speaking Life into Others

Every word we utter has the potential to shape realities, alter destinies, and light up the dark corners of someone's world. When we choose to speak life—offering words of encouragement, recognition, and positivity—we not only uplift the individuals around us but also initiate a ripple effect of empowerment. Studies have shown that positive reinforcement can significantly boost individuals' self-esteem and motivation.

Your words can L-I-T-E-R-A-L-L-Y change someone’s life!

Did you know:

Adolescents who report having at least one positive role model exhibit higher academic achievement and engage in far less risky behavior. This underscores the profound effect of positive role models not just in academic settings but in nurturing resilience and a growth mindset. How many times have y’all heard me mention growth mindset?

Cultivating a Circle of Positive Influence

Also mentioned in the previously mentioned newsletter: “Hang out with 5 millionaires and you’ll become the 6th, hang out with 5 felons and you’ll become the 6th. Who you keep in your life and the relationships you choose to foster are crucial to your overall well being.”

Surrounding ourselves with individuals who embody and practice the art of speaking life is crucial for personal growth. Positive role models, be they mentors, teachers, family members, or friends, provide invaluable guidance and support. Guidance and support, when coming from a place of love, are two things we can never get enough of.

The Harvard Family Research Project found that children with mentors are more likely to aspire to and achieve higher educational attainment, illustrating the lasting impact of positive influence beyond immediate outcomes.

The Breakdown:

1. Be Intentional with Your Words: Practice recognizing and vocalizing the strengths and efforts of those around you. Personalized, specific affirmations have a far greater impact than generic praise.

2. Seek and Provide Mentorship: Engage in mentorship opportunities, whether by seeking a mentor for guidance or offering to mentor someone else. This reciprocal relationship fosters growth for both parties.

3. Lead by Example: Demonstrate resilience, positive self-talk, and constructive handling of setbacks. This models behavior for others to emulate.

4. Expand Your Circle: Actively seek to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and experiences. Diverse perspectives enrich our understanding and inspire innovation.

The act of speaking life into others and being surrounded by those who do the same is more than just a practice of positivity; it's a foundational strategy for fostering a society where empowerment, growth, and mutual support flourish.

By intentionally cultivating these interactions and relationships, we not only enhance our own lives but also contribute to a broader culture of upliftment and success.

Imagine the world you and I can create! Seek out moments in your day to intentionally and directly uplift someone!

Thanks again for reading!

And please never forget:

‘If you are not willing to learn, no one can help you. If you are determined to learn, no one can stop you” - Zig Zagler

Much love, mi gente!

- Mike O’Hara

PS

A friend of mine wrote his first children’s book! Go grab one here, my kids love it and I promise you and yours will too!

As always,

YOUR FEEDBACK IS ALWAYS APPRECIATED:

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