Category: Encourage

Slow

~ Tim Pritchett ~ Leave a comment

|Slow|
Slowing down reminds you that the journey is supposed to be fun.
| Anne Bancroft|

The New Year often ushers in new year resolutions, new deadlines, new to-do lists, and new commitments. These aren’t necessarily bad, but they can distract us from what truly matters.

The turn of the calendar is a chance to slow down – a reminder that life is a journey to be savored, not just a series of boxes to be checked. In a culture of “rise and grind,” finding joy, choosing rest, and being still can be met with resistance (both internal and external) and criticism (both internal and external). But that act of slowing down… that decision to be intentional about rest are key ingredients to peace and joy.

Maybe you ended 2024 thinking that 2025 would start off differently (“…it certainly can’t get any worse…”), but hours, days, or weeks into the “new” year, it all seems like it’s more of the same – or, yes, even worse. This is why the reminder to slow down is so important. Slowing down lets you consider and focus on what matters – a coffee with a friend, enjoying deep laughter, or lounging on a quiet evening. It can also include finding the good in the hard or finding freedom in routine. Discovering that you’re stronger than you thought and more resilient than you previously believed.

Please rest. Please take care of yourself. Please slow down. But also, please know there is joy in the journey – even if things aren’t going as you’d hoped in this season. Look for the good. Focus on gratitude, even in the smallest things. And as always…

Be Encouraged.

Rejoice

~ Tim Pritchett ~ Leave a comment

He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has.
|Epictetus|

Christmas is in just a few days. Recently, in an all-company meeting, I began discussing many of our team’s activities that give back to our community and some of the real needs that exist. I mentioned that one of the critical clothing needs the Hearts With a Mission Youth Shelter has is packages of new underwear or socks. Underwear. Socks.

We were reminded and shared how much we have to be thankful for. As we talked about gratitude, I was overwhelmed—nearly brought to tears. We’re so blessed. You may have hardships and difficulties. I don’t make light of that. But if you’re reading this, you’re blessed. You have access to electricity and a computer, probably somewhere inside… We have much to be thankful for.

But the temptation to chase more – more gifts, more decorations, more perfection, more…more. But in this season, we have the opportunity to pause and embrace gratitude. I’ve heard it asked, what if you woke up tomorrow only with what you were thankful for today?

There are hardships, for sure, but please don’t fall into the trap of focusing on what you don’t have. Instead, celebrate what is already good in your life. Please meditate on and be grateful for the love of family and friends…the peace that can be found in quiet moments, the help and support of those around you. The ability to offer help and support to those around you. When our thoughts and perspectives are guided by gratitude, even the smallest things become great treasures.

This Christmas, put aside the focus on what you’re missing and choose to rejoice in what you have. Gratitude transforms what we have into enough.

Away in a manger No crib for a bed
The little Lord Jesus Laid down His sweet head

Bless all the dear children In Your tender care
And fit us for heaven To live with You there

Merry Christmas. Be Encouraged.

Success

~ Tim Pritchett ~ Leave a comment

|Success|
Success is stumbling from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm.
Winston Churchill

Success often comes through perseverance, not perfection. Embrace each setback as a stepping stone, maintaining enthusiasm despite the stumbles. Every failure is a lesson, an opportunity to grow and refine your approach. Keep your spirit high and your vision clear, understanding that persistence is the key that unlocks the door to success. Celebrate your resilience and determination, as these qualities will carry you forward.

Stay passionate and positive, understanding that each step, even the difficult ones, brings you closer to your goals. By embracing the process with a joyful heart of gratitude, you pave the way for true success and inspire others to do the same.

Be Encouraged.

Think On These Things

~ Tim Pritchett ~ Leave a comment

|Think On These Things|
Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
The Apostle Paul

In a world filled with challenges, be intentional and focus on what fills your soul. Embrace truth and honor in your thoughts. Seek justice and purity in your actions. Appreciate the beauty and magnificence around you, finding peace in the small moments and feeling uplifted by the joy they bring. When you focus on what is praise-worthy, you cultivate a positive and resilient mindset. This practice not only makes your life better but also spreads faith, hope, and love to those around you.

Let your thoughts be a sanctuary of goodness and peace, guiding your actions and shaping a brighter, more hopeful world. By encouraging these values, you become a source of inspiration and strength for yourself and others.

Be Encouraged.

What You Say

~ Tim Pritchett ~ Leave a comment

|What You Say|
What you do speaks so loudly that I cannot hear what you say.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

Actions reveal our true character far more than words ever could. Our values, intentions, and commitments are made clear through what we do. While words can inspire, it’s our deeds that truly make an impact. Strive to lead by example. Show kindness, integrity, and goodness in every action. Your consistent efforts and genuine behavior will speak volumes, influencing and inspiring those around you.

Embrace the power of action, knowing that each step you take creates a ripple effect, not just shaping the world, but also touching lives in profound ways. Let your actions align with your principles, creating a legacy of authenticity and positive change. By living your values, you become a beacon of inspiration, proving that authentic leadership and influence is demonstrated through what we do.

Be Encouraged.

Small Things

~ Tim Pritchett ~ Leave a comment

|Small Things|
If you can’t yet do great things, do small things in a great way.
Napoleon Hill

Greatness isn’t always about grand gestures; it’s often found in the small, consistent actions we take daily. Even if you’re not sure what the “big thing” is yet, focus on doing the little things with excellence. Your dedication to the details, your commitment to quality, and your passion in even the simplest tasks lay the groundwork for bigger successes. Each small step, taken with care and purpose, builds momentum and cultivates habits of greatness. Embrace every opportunity to shine, no matter how small.

Remember, small efforts, when done consistently, can lead to significant accomplishments. Stay dedicated, take pride in your work, and trust that your small, great actions today are paving the way for a remarkable tomorrow.

Be Encouraged.

Stand Firm

~ Tim Pritchett ~ Leave a comment

|Stand Firm|
Be sure you put your feet in the right place, then stand firm.
Abraham Lincoln

Recently, I’ve been reading about foundations. The foundations that shape us…that sustain us. Success often starts with a solid foundation. Taking time to find a solid and trustworthy foundation ensures every step points you to the desired result. Once you understand your purpose, commit to it wholeheartedly. Challenges will arise, but standing firm in your beliefs and goals will see you through.

Remember, strength isn’t just about moving forward; it’s also about staying steadfast when the journey gets tough. Embrace your path – your calling with confidence, knowing that with every step rooted in that foundation of who you have been called to be, you’re building a future rooted in authenticity. Stand firm in your purpose.

Be Encouraged.

Change

~ Tim Pritchett ~ Leave a comment

|Change|
Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.
James Baldwin

Change begins with courage. The courage to be dissatisfied enough with the current state that you’re willing to step up, step out, and make a different reality. While life’s challenges may seem impossible, facing them head-on is the first step toward transformation. By acknowledging our fears and actively confronting the difficulties, we not only open the door to new possibilities but also take control of our own narrative. Allow yourself to feel the emotion… the sadness, the joy, the regret, the pride, the guilt.. feel it for a moment (don’t live there), but allow that emotion to move you forward. Each small step taken with bravery builds momentum, leading to growth and progress. Embrace the journey, knowing that every challenge you face is an opportunity to shape a better future.

Be Encouraged.

Encourage One Another

~ Tim Pritchett ~ Leave a comment

|Encourage One Another|
Let’s hold firmly to the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let’s consider how to encourage one another in love and good deeds.
|The Apostle Paul|

Hold on to hope with unwavering faith, knowing that promises will be fulfilled. It will all be good in the end – if it’s not good… it’s not the end. Embrace the journey with confidence and trust. Let’s uplift one another, spreading love and kindness through our actions. Encourage those around you, and together, we can create a supportive and compassionate community. Believe in the power of faith, hope, and love. Embrace unity and the strength that comes from standing firm and inspiring each other. Our combined efforts in love and good deeds will bring light and joy to the world, fostering a culture of kindness and support.

Be Encouraged.

Forgiving

~ Tim Pritchett ~ Leave a comment

|Forgiving|
Courageous people do not fear forgiving, for the sake of peace.
Nelson Mandela|

True strength lies in the ability to forgive. Embrace the courage to let go of grudges and make peace a priority. Forgiveness is not a sign of weakness but evidence of your resilience and compassion. It does not excuse actions but creates the space to free you from the burden and the time to heal. By choosing to forgive, you free yourself from the chains of resentment and open the door to healing and harmony. Stand tall in your courage, and let forgiveness pave the way to a more peaceful and fulfilling life.

Be Encouraged.