Good Morning, Ladies!!

And we’re back with another #INSPIREME Series post!  This post is very near to me because this topic has been something that has helped me so much in my journey of life and faith.  I truly hope that you enjoy it as much as I have!  Please be open to learning something new!!

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What comes to your mind when you think of evangelizing?  Is there ever a bit of fear mixed into that thought?  What about other areas of life in which you might need to step out of your comfort zone a bit? What would your first thought be if someone asked you to give a ten minute speech on the idea of happiness or living a faithful life?

Life is filled with instances that require a little extra bravery.  Every day, we are called to “step up to the plate” in some way or another.  While taking leaps of faith can be challenging, it never fails to be rewarding in the end.

Dale Carnegie became the world’s pioneer in the art of communication in 1936, when his book, How to Win Friends and Influence People, first hit the presses.  He was the first person to ever peg the idea of becoming a better person when it came to human relations.  And since his first book was published nearly a century ago, his ideas have been the first fruits of hundreds of other works and movements.

Dale Carnegie had a knack for looking at human relation from a beautiful, yet simply Christian, point of view.  And I believe that is why his works are still in circulation so many years later.

Sooo, I thought I would just give you a little overview of some of his most legendary principles.  The following points are only a few of the points that Mr. Carnegie outlines in his first book.  I would highly recommend that you pick up a copy or look up the rest of his principles online.  Until then, enjoy these simple keys to communication.

Don’t criticize, condemn, or complain.

This is definitely one of my favorite principles.  Imagine a world where no one condemned their neighbors.  Instead of condemning, wouldn’t it be nice if people simple looked for good in others.  And what about complaining.  It is so much easier to not look at things negatively.  And it makes conversation so much nicer!!

When it comes to evangelization, these things will never get us anywhere.  It’s only by looking at the good in every situation, and truly trying to see where people are coming from, that we can truly reach out to them with the joy of the Gospel.

Give honest, sincere appreciation

Every person has the desire for love deeply engrained in their souls.  We all long for and strive for acceptance by those around us.  In every conversation, we owe those we encounter our sincere appreciation.  By showing them that we truly care and that we appreciate them, we are opening doors to deeper conversation and trust.

When it comes to evangelization and the Catholic world, appreciation and love of others is taken to a whole new level.  By genuinely loving and caring for those we know, we are showing them a tiny sliver of Christ.  His message of love can be seen in even the smallest act!!

Arouse in the other person an eager want.

Everyone has their prerogative.  Whether it be good or bad, it is our job to always show others the merit in choosing wisely.  In other words, arouse in the other person an eager want for good.  Show them the joy that comes out of living a holy life.  Smile and allow Christ to shine through you.  Teach them good through good.  Joy and goodness are so contagious, so never underestimate your power to influence people simply by being an example.

Be a good listener.

Listening.  The age-old idea.  I think it is an easily proven fact that all people are more “into” any conversation if they feel like the other person is genuinely listening to them.  Just knowing that someone cares about what you are going through makes you more willing to trust them.

When it comes to spreading the gospel, the ability to listen is so important.  If you are just getting to know someone, even picking up on the slightest details can help you reach them better.  And this goes for growing more authentic relationships as well.  If you are truly interested in a person, you have to listen intently in order to get to know them in this deeper way.

Be sympathetic with the other person’s ideas and desires.

In any situation, it is always best to put the other person first.  By putting yourself second, you can easily show them how much you care about them and their opinion.  And yes it might be hard to compromise the first word, but it is definitely worth it in the long haul.

When it comes to Christianity, not many people have been converted by opinions or facts.  Instead of simply telling another about what you think, allow them to tell you their concerns or hopes.  This will make you better equipped to help them in the future.

Encourage them!!

Sometimes it is easy to think the other person’s crosses or struggles are much easier.  We, after all, are just bystanders looking in on their lives.  But if we make a sincere effort to see things from their point of view, we have so much more opportunity to encourage them in their journey.

Never miss an opportunity to encourage a brother or sister towards their goal.  Whether it be accomplishing something in their lives or overcoming a feat of faith, always be ready to lend a kind word to anyone.

 

I hope you enjoyed this little intro to Dale Carnegie.  If you are interested in learning more about his books or resources, please let me know!!  I’d love to share more!

Have you read any of his books before?  If so, what did you think?

Have a blessed day,

Maddy