Some people have difficulty accepting encouragement from others.
It is a known psychological fact that when children receive little or no encouragement they move into adulthood believing they do not need encouragement or that they deserve encouragement in life.
This 'go-it-alone' attitude is both self-defeating and self-punishing.
Furthermore, you deprive the people who love you the joy and the opportunity to be available for you and support you when the going is challenging.
This phenomenon was recognized by Dorothy Law Nolte, PhD, a teacher and lecturer on family dynamics, who wrote a poem, Children Learn What They Live, 1954.
She later expanded it into a book with the help of her friend and colleague, Rachel Harris, LCSW, PhD.
Nolte and Harris suggest effective ways to avoid or prevent constant criticism to effect child behavior.
Their approach is encouraging behavior and values through example.
Thus, they set forth guiding principals, as teaching tools and gentle reminders for parents.
The encouragement you receive from others will prompt you to feel more optimistic and hopeful.
As a New Year unfolds, it is a good time to change an ineffective habit of believing you do not deserve encouragement from yourself and others.
Make a commitment to yourself to ask your loved ones for assistance as you strive for a goal or seek out a knowledgeable mentor to guide you along your chosen path.
You will be pleased to discover that the people you care about are willing to offer support, answer questions, give encouragement, and put their resources at your disposal when they know you are receptive.
The doubts you have will vanish when you recognize the breadth of your support network.
Consider reexamining your goals to ascertain where you can take on goals or task that are more challenging and offer greater rewards.
The gratitude you show your loved ones for their encouragement will ensure that they will continue to offer their support.