Character Trait: Encouraging

To engage your reader, it's important to always show not tell the traits of your characters. Encouraging is a character trait that refers to the ability to inspire and support others in their endeavors, giving them hope and confidence to pursue their goals. An encouraging person is someone who uplifts others with positive words, constructive feedback, and genuine interest in their progress, helping them to overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. This trait is characterized by a kind and empathetic nature, a willingness to listen and understand others, and a strong belief in the power of encouragement to motivate and inspire people.

Possible causes of being encouraging

You might want to weave these into your character's back story to build a more believable character.

• Positive role models who were encouraging or uplifting
• A recognition of the importance of building others up rather than tearing them down
• A belief in the power of positivity and encouragement
• Personal experiences of being encouraged or supported by others
• A natural inclination towards empathy and compassion
• Exposure to diverse perspectives and cultures that value encouragement
• A desire to make a positive impact on others' lives

Behaviors associated with being encouraging

You may be able to show your character's trait of encouraging by using these.

• Being patient and understanding
• Inspiring confidence and hope
• Celebrating even small achievements
• Offering guidance and advice without being judgmental
• Listening actively and being present for others
• Helping others see the best in themselves
• Providing support and motivation during difficult times
• Recognizing and acknowledging effort and progress
• Offering positive feedback and constructive criticism

Attitudes associated with being encouraging

You may be able to show encouraging through their attitudes.

• Willingness to listen
• Supportive
• Understanding
• Patience
• Celebrates achievements
• Positive outlook
• Non-judgmental
• Constructive criticism
• Empathy

Thoughts and struggles associated with being encouraging

Here are some ideas for things your encouraging character may think or struggle with.

• They may experience self-doubt and fear of not being able to live up to the expectations they set for themselves and others.
• They may feel frustrated or discouraged when their efforts to encourage others are not successful or are met with resistance.
• Encouraging characters may also struggle with feeling like they are not doing enough or making a big enough impact.
• Encouraging characters may also have a tendency to take on others' problems and try to solve them, which can lead to burnout and stress.
• Encouraging characters often feel the need to lift others up and inspire them to be their best selves.
• Encouraging characters may also struggle with setting boundaries and saying no, as they want to be there for others as much as possible.
• They may struggle with balancing their own needs and desires with the desire to help others.

Emotions associated with being encouraging

Here are some ideas for emotions your encouraging character may experience.

• Positive
• Supportive
• Optimistic
• Patient
• Empathetic
• Enthusiastic
• Kind
• Understanding
• Helpful

Facial expressions associated with being encouraging

Here are some facial expressions your encouraging character may exhibit.

• Tilting the head slightly
• A warm smile
• Raised eyebrows
• A gentle or reassuring tone of voice
• Open facial expressions (avoiding frowns or scowls)
• Nodding
• Relaxed facial muscles
• Eye contact

Body language associated with being encouraging

Here is some body language your encouraging character may exhibit.

• Showing interest and actively listening to the other person
• Leaning forward and making eye contact
• Using a calm and soothing tone of voice
• Smiling or using a friendly expression
• Using open gestures such as spreading arms or hands
• Maintaining an upright and confident posture
• Avoiding crossed arms or closed body posture
• Using positive affirmations or words of praise
• Nodding or tilting the head in agreement

Behaviors associated with being encouraging

Here are some behaviors your encouraging character may exhibit.

• Listening actively and being present for others
• Offering guidance and advice without being judgmental
• Inspiring confidence and hope
• Celebrating even small achievements
• Providing support and motivation during difficult times
• Being patient and understanding
• Recognizing and acknowledging effort and progress
• Offering positive feedback and constructive criticism
• Helping others see the best in themselves

Growth and evolution of encouraging characters

Here are some ways that your encouraging character may grow and evolve over time.

• Become more open-minded and accepting of different perspectives and ideas
• Learn to communicate more effectively to inspire and uplift others
• Discover their own strengths and use them to encourage and empower others
• Develop greater empathy and compassion for those around them
• Learn to be more patient and understanding with others, especially those who are struggling
• Overcome their own self-doubt and become more confident in their abilities

Stereotypes of encouraging characters to avoid

Try to avoid writing stereotypical encouraging character like these examples.

• Avoid making the Encouraging character appear overly pushy or intrusive.
• Avoid making the Encouraging character seem too perfect or flawless.
• Avoid portraying the Encouraging character as naive or ignorant of challenges or obstacles.
• Avoid making the Encouraging character seem like they have all the answers or solutions.

Negatives of being encouraging

Here are some potential negatives of being encouraging. Note: These are subjective and some might also be seen as positives depending on the context.

• Being too encouraging can come across as insincere or disingenuous if not balanced with constructive feedback.
• Encouraging others can lead to burnout if you neglect your own needs.
• Encouraging others can sometimes lead to overpromising or setting unrealistic expectations.
• Encouraging others can be emotionally draining if you take on their problems as your own.

Positives of being encouraging

Here are some potential positives of being encouraging. Note: These are subjective and some might also be seen as negatives depending on the context.

• Encouraging characters are often viewed as kind and caring, which can endear them to other characters and readers alike.
• Encouraging characters inspire others to believe in themselves and their abilities.
• They can be instrumental in helping others overcome obstacles and challenges.
• They can motivate others to take action and pursue their goals.
• They can help to build confidence and self-esteem in others.
• Encouraging characters often have a positive impact on those around them, creating a supportive and uplifting atmosphere.
• Encouraging characters are often seen as trustworthy and dependable, as they are willing to offer support and guidance.

Verbal expressions of encouraging characters

Here are some potential expressions used by encouraging characters.

• "Keep going, you're doing great."
• "You've got this!"
• "You're making progress!"
• "I'm here for you, let's work on this together."
• "You're capable of achieving anything you set your mind to."
• "You're an inspiration to others."
• "I'm proud of you."
• "Don't give up, you're almost there."
• "I believe in you."

Relationships of encouraging characters

Here are some ways that being encouraging could affect your character's relationships.

• Encouragers tend to be supportive of others and provide positive feedback and reinforcement.
• They often inspire and motivate others to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.
• They may act as mentors or coaches to help others develop their skills and abilities.
• Encouragers often build strong relationships based on trust and mutual respect.
• Encouragers are good listeners and provide a safe space for others to share their thoughts and feelings.

Examples from books of characters who are encouraging

• Samwise Gamgee from "The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien
• Atticus Finch from "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee
• Pudge from "Looking for Alaska" by John Green
• Dumbledore from "Harry Potter" series by J.K. Rowling
• Anne Shirley from "Anne of Green Gables" by L.M. Montgomery
• Charlotte from "Charlotte's Web" by E.B. White
• Mr. Miyagi from "The Karate Kid" by B.B. Hiller
• Morrie Schwartz from "Tuesdays with Morrie" by Mitch Albom
• Miss Honey from "Matilda" by Roald Dahl

Writing exercises for writing encouraging characters

Here are some writing exercises you might try for learning to write encouraging characters.

• Write a dialogue between the character and someone who has a different perspective or approach to a situation. Show how the character respectfully listens to the other person's ideas, shares their own thoughts, and ultimately encourages the other person to pursue their own path.
• Imagine a scenario where the character faces a difficult challenge or setback. Show how the character responds with resilience, determination, and a positive attitude. Use internal monologue to reveal the character's self-talk and mindset.
• Write a scene where the character takes the initiative to mentor or teach someone who is struggling to learn a new skill or overcome a fear. Show how the character provides guidance, feedback, and support in a way that empowers the other person to succeed.
• Create a scene where the character encourages someone who is feeling discouraged or defeated. Show how the character's words or actions help the other person feel more hopeful and motivated.