Encouragement: The Flying V Formation

"We should seize every opportunity to give encouragement. Encouragement is oxygen for the soul." - George M. Adams

When we help others and encourage them, it often has more meaning and makes a bigger difference than we realize. Take the time to seek out opportunities to encourage someone who needs it most.

It is an important time for us to all stick together. To be there for one another. To encourage each other.  To uplift and support someone to help them get through. To help protect each other through these difficult times.

This reminded me of when you see geese flying south for the winter. They all fly along in that "V" formation. You might be interested to know that science has discovered why they fly that way.  Research has revealed that as each goose flaps its wings, it creates an uplift for the bird immediately behind it. By flying in a "V" formation, the whole flock adds at least 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew on its own. Together they can go further than they can alone.

If a bird falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to go it alone. It quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front. When the lead goose gets tired, he rotates back in the "V" and another goose flies the point. They take turns doing the heavy lifting. Share the load.

The geese honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed. They make an effort to keep everyone focused and motivated.

And finally, if a goose gets sick, or is wounded and falls out of the formation, two other geese will also fall out of formation with it, and follow it down to help and protect it.  They stay with the goose until it is able to fly again. Then they launch out with another formation or try to catch up with their group. They stand by and support.

So, the next time you see birds flying in this formation, remember the great lessons from why they do it this way.

Reach out and encourage someone who needs it, today. Whether it’s a friend, sibling, parent, child, or coworker.  A little recognition could make a world of difference in their lives. Let them know that you are thankful for them and that you appreciate having them in your life. You can encourage someone with words, a hug, a gift, or even a text or phone call. 

A lot of people have gone further than they thought they could because someone else encouraged them and believed they could. Give praise and encouragement to others daily. It is so simple to do; act now and go encourage someone! It may have more meaning than you realize. And, don't do it because you feel like you have to...do it because you can!

Make today great!

Curtis

"When you encourage others, you in the process are encouraged because you're making a commitment, and difference, in that person's life. Encouragement really does make a difference." - Zig Ziglar