Gratitude Focus: I am Grateful For The Power Of Encouragement

 

Reflection/Why I’m Grateful:

Yesterday, I had a meeting with a young man who is in transition. He grew up in a tough part of St. Louis and made something of himself, but now he’s being moved out of his role because the new boss wants someone else in the position.

We spent time catching up on life, and I simply tried to offer him a word of encouragement. He’s come further than many believed he would—and he has so much more to contribute to the region.

My encouragement to him was this: take a moment to breathe. Take a break. Go somewhere to decompress. Then get back in the game. I reminded him not to let himself be pigeonholed into certain roles. His skillset isn’t just a tool, it’s a platform.

Who in your life could use a word of encouragement right now—and what might happen if you were the one to offer it?

Question for Reflection

 

 

Hi, I’m Orvin Kimbrough, volunteer, board director, chairman, and CEO. I help professionals move from feeling stuck to being strengthened by reshaping how they think, lead, and live. My work focuses on confidence, leadership, and influence through mindset shifts, expanded networks, and bold, values-aligned action. My perspective is rooted in lived experience, from growing up in foster care to leading complex institutions as a CEO and shaped by faith, resilience, and a deep belief in human potential.

Rectangle 19461

Books for Every Stage

Twice Over a Man

A memoir often described as a leadership guide wrapped in an honest, relatable story of perseverance, healing, and growth. It explores how pain can be reframed into purpose and how ordinary people build meaningful lives through courage and clarity.

More Than a Conqueror

Written for teens and young adults, this book encourages confidence, resilience, and identity formation during the years when self-belief is being shaped.

Ward and the State

A children’s book that gently introduces big ideas like belonging, courage, and hope, helping young readers see themselves as more than their circumstances

INTRODUCING: The Thriver’s Path™

This blog is part of The Thriver’s Path™—a growing ecosystem of writing, courses, reflections, and community designed to help people of all ages reframe their thinking, reclaim their agency, and take their next meaningful move.

→ Ready for your next move?

Explore more writings, resources, and ways to engage at orvinkimbrough.com, or join the conversation inside the Thrivers Club™ community.

Enjoyed this post?

Stay connected and continue the journey with insights on leadership, growth, resilience, and intentional living delivered straight to your inbox.

Typing+Blog+Still

Subscribe to the Leadership Insights Newsletter and receive:

Subscribe
  • Thought-provoking reflections and leadership perspectives
  • Practical strategies for personal and professional growth
  • Monthly insights and inspiration
  • Early announcements and updates from The Thrivers Path™
Tags: Gratitude