When you build people up, it has the ability to transform your life and the lives of everyone around you. Whether it's through words of encouragement or simply being present and supportive, building others up can ultimately make you feel more empowered and fulfilled.
So let's dive into more reasons why building each other up is important and tips on how to do it!
Why you should build people up
Building others up is one of the most important things we can do as human beings. Here are three reasons why:
1. Building others up boosts your own self-worth
For starters, when you build people up and encourage them to achieve their goals, you strengthen your own sense of self-worth and confidence. This can empower you to take new risks and go after your own dreams with renewed energy and determination.
2. Building people up helps you grow as a person
Similarly, building others up is also a great way to deepen your connections with friends and loved ones.
It reminds you there are people out there who have your back no matter what — and it creates enduring bonds that will last for many years to come.
3. When you build others up, you tap into an abundance mindset
Last but not least, when you focus on helping others rather than just yourself, you tap into an abundance mindset that can actually increase your own success.
When you choose to be generous with your time and energy, for example, you see that these resources are not finite. There’s always enough to go around!
11 Fulfilling ways to build people up
So if you want to live a more fulfilling life, start giving more of your love, time, and energy towards helping others thrive! Here are 11 ways you can build people up today.
1. Give someone a compliment
One of the simplest and most effective ways to build people up is through the power of words. And what better way to do that than with a genuine compliment?
Maybe you're super proud of your coworker for getting that promotion they deserved. Or maybe your best friend looks drop-dead gorgeous in that outfit.
Whatever it is, giving compliments can help strengthen your relationship with that person. And it can also transform your own sense of well-being as it combats any jealousy you may feel toward them.
2. Motivate your friends on their debt pay-off journey
Another great way to build people up is to motivate them on their debt payoff journey (or really any goal, for that matter).
Paying off debt can be a long, hard road. And who knows… your motivation may be just what they need to get the ball rolling. It can also help hold them accountable when times get tough.
Plus, building each other up can also get you excited to accomplish your goals too — whether it’s paying off credit card debt, buying your first home, or finding a job you love.
3. Build people up by supporting them through a hard time
When someone’s experiencing grief, loss, financial troubles, mom guilt, or some other type of hardship, it can be difficult to know what to say or do. But one way you can build others up is by sincerely listening and offering your support.
When you listen compassionately and without judgment, it can help your loved ones:
- Move through the cycle of grief.
- Make them feel seen, heard, and supported.
- Strengthen the bond you two share.
- Increase your empathy towards others who may also be in a similar situation.
So the next time someone you love is going through a hard time, open yourself up to truly listen and be there for them — you never know what might come from it.
4. Thank someone for a kind deed
Everyone knows how good it feels to be on the receiving end of a kind deed. But did you know that thanking someone for their kindness can be just as beneficial?
Research shows that expressing gratitude has a number of positive effects on your physical and mental health. For instance, it can lower blood pressure, improve immune function, and increase levels of happiness and satisfaction.
So next time someone goes out of their way for you, be sure to say “thank you” – it’s good for both of you! You could even consider an inexpensive thank you gift!
5. Write a letter of appreciation to a mentor, family member, or friend
Writing a letter of appreciation to someone who’s had a positive impact on your life is one of the best ways to build others up. It could be a friend, family member, boss, or mentor.
Whoever it may be, showing gratitude for their influence can benefit you both in unbelievable ways.
For one, the recipient will feel appreciated as they reflect on how their actions impacted your life. This can help them grow as an individual and strengthen the bond you share.
Additionally, taking time to sit down and put pen to paper can help instill mindfulness in your life. It gives you a chance to slow down, calm your brain, and really reflect on the good you’ve encountered over the years.
6. Build people up by recommending them for a job, promotion, or award
It’s no secret that many well-qualified people — especially Black women and people of color — get passed over for jobs and promotions simply because they don’t fit the typical “White” stereotype. (Yes, racial discrimination still exists in the workplace.)
In fact, one Forbes article found that Black women were half as likely to get hired for local jobs as their White male counterparts. And a 2021 Women in the Workplace study found that Black women are promoted at a lower rate than White women, citing race as the leading cause.
This leads me to this point... In today's world, you have countless opportunities to show your appreciation and support for the hard work of others.
When you know someone who would be a perfect fit for a job or promotion, recommending them can be all it takes to wake others up to the greatness you already see in them. And this simple act can be all the “good vibes” you need to keep going.
7. Smile at someone — even if you don't know them
Smiling is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to build each other up. Whether you're walking down the street or sitting in a coffee shop, smiling can instantly put someone at ease and create positive energy in any situation.
Plus, you release endorphins when you smile, which can boost your mood and increase your happiness. Who knows… maybe smiling really is contagious!
8. Write a positive review of a business on social media or online
By posting business reviews on social media and other platforms, companies can see the impact they’ve had on customers' lives. This information can be incredibly valuable when it comes to optimizing operations and improving customer experience.
Plus, it feels good to spread positive messages about the brands you love — whether it’s a restaurant, clothing store, hair salon, or a particular financial platform for women (ahem).
9. Offer to help someone with a task they're struggling with
Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses. For instance, you may be really great a living a minimalist lifestyle and cutting all the clutter from your life, while your best friend may struggle to part with that $5 shirt she bought in high school.
So why not build others up by lending a helping hand? Maybe in your friend's case, you could offer to come over to her house and help her sort through her clothes.
Or you could help someone build a budget or learn how to ask for a raise — whatever your strengths are! Not only is it a great way to show you care, but altruistic behavior can also reduce stress and make you happier.
So next time you see someone struggling with something you're good at, don’t hesitate to offer your assistance. It's a great way to start building each other up.
10. Build people up by giving them a sincere hug
Have you ever been having a really tough day, and then someone you care about walks up and gives you a hug? It can instantly make you feel better, right?
That's because hugs are powerful. They have the ability to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and boost our moods.
But that's not all. Hugs can also increase your sense of belonging, promote forgiveness, and even improve your physical health.
So next time you're feeling down, or someone you know looks like they could use a pick-me-up, don't be afraid to reach out and give them a hug. You just might make their day — and yours.
11. Learn how to build people up by reading memoirs or self-help books
Memoirs and self-help books offer a unique perspective into the human experience. They can give you a profound sense of understanding and help you gain the tools you need to live your best life.
Specifically, self-help books and memoirs are a great way to:
- Find new ways to overcome your own challenges.
- Identify unhelpful patterns you need to break.
- Cultivate new perspectives.
- Gain the inspiration and motivation you need to pursue your goals.
For instance, there are tons of amazing leadership books for women out there. If you were struggling with imposter syndrome, for example, reading a book like Choosing to Prosper (by our very own Bola Sokunbi) could give you the tools you need to find your own voice.
Build people up to feel more fulfilled and empowered in your own life!
These are just 11 of many ways you can build people up. But one thing is for sure: when you take the time to do it, it has a ripple effect that extends far beyond yourself. Building each other up makes the world a more loving place to be.
That’s why one of our goals at Clever Girl Finance is to build others up on their financial journeys. Explore some of our 100% free courses, podcast episodes, YouTube videos, and more to gain the tools you need to transform your financial life for good.