When you decide to be a hero, you will need encouragement. In fact, your heroes need encouragement as well. The world is full of discouragers.

You can become a hero simply by encouraging others along the way.

During an interview, Oprah Winfrey shared that she had interviewed over thirty-five thousand guests on The Oprah Winfrey Show. When asked about a common thread shared by all the people she had interviewed, she said that everyone she had ever interviewed sought validation. It didn’t matter whether it was President Bush, Sylvester Stallone, or Beyoncé. When the cameras stopped rolling and the lights were turned off, they all leaned over and said, “Was that okay?”

They wanted to know if they had done well. They wanted to be validated. They wanted a little encouragement that they were okay. It didn’t matter whether they were the best or worst in the world at what they did or if they were leaders of the free world. They wanted to know if they had done a good job in Oprah’s moment.

Everyone in your life, whether you know them well or you’ve just met, craves validation and longs to be recognized for their unique gifts.

The concept of validation is a powerful revelation. This single idea can change everything in your life, both personally and professionally. The people in your life, at work and at home, are desperately seeking evidence that they matter to you.

Heroes need validation

Take a moment and think of your heroes. Now, here's the important part: make sure they know that they are your hero ...and then tell them why they are your hero. You can write that person a note; take them to lunch; give them a quick phone call; or send them a text. Whichever way you choose, just make sure they know.

This post includes excerpts from Kevin’s newest book The Hero Effect®: Being Your Best When it Matters the Most.

The Hero Effect® is a personal revelation that also holds profound implications for business. It’s an insightful narrative that challenges conventional thinking and reveals a brand-new paradigm in the world of everyday heroes. After reading, your team will be motivated to reach beyond what is required and do something remarkable! This book is designed to help individuals and organizations achieve greater results by eliminating “ordinary" thinking and mastering the habit of excellence.

Purchase Your Copy Here.

Photo credits (in order of appearance): Lukas on Pexels and John Mark Smith and Jana Sabeth Schultz on Unsplash