Learning different ways to give encouragement to others or to express our support is always worth doing. Words of encouragement and support generate trust and confidence between people. In addition to motivating and inspiring, they also help strengthen relationships and improve communication. They also provide much-needed support in a difficult time. Below are some common phrases of encouragement and support.
Phrases to encourage someone to do something that seems difficult or risky
• Give it a try!
• Give it your best shot!
• Give it your best!
• Go for it!
• Go on / come on! You can do it!
• Go on. It’s worth a shot!
• It’s worth a shot.
• Just do it!
• What are you waiting for?
• What do you have to lose?
• What have you got to lose?
• Why not?
• You might as well.
• You’re brave and strong. You can do it!
Phrases to use when someone is already doing well
• Believe me, you’re going to make the difference!
• Don’t stop now!
• Don’t give up, you can do this!
• I really like your approach.
• I’m really impressed. You’ve earned my respect.
• I’m so proud of you. I knew you had it in you!
• I’m inspired by your resilience and determination. Keep up the great work.
• I’m proud of you for trying. Keep pushing forward.
• Keep at it! You’re making such progress!
• Keep going. The time you put in really shows now!
• Keep it up.
• Keep up the good work.
• Keep working on it. You’re improving all the time!
• No doubt about it …you’re on the right track!
• One more time and you’ll have it!
• Take a deep breath and keep going.
• That’s a good effort. Keep up the good work!
• That’s a real improvement. Well done!
• That’s first class work. Keep going!
• There you go!
• You’re better than ever – you’ve improved so much!
• You’re bound to succeed – there’s so little competition!
• You’re doing an amazing job!
• You’re doing better than you think!
• You’re getting better every day!
• You’re going to love your success!
• You’re nearly there! You’re almost there! That’s nearly it!
Phrases to use when someone is having trouble
• Come on! You can do it!
• Don’t give up!
• Don’t stop till you get there!
• Don’t worry, you can do this!
• Don’t worry. Everything will be fine!
• Hang in there!
• If you want to talk about it, I’m here for you.
• I know it’s hard, but don’t give up. You’ll get there.
• I know you’re dealing with a difficult situation now, but I’m with you.
• I’m on your side.
• I’m here if you need a shoulder to lean on.
• I will always support you.
• It’s just a setback, not a reason to give up.
• Keep at it!
• Keep fighting!
• Keep pushing!
• Never give up!
• Never say ‘die’!
• Stay at it!
• Stay strong!
• Take a deep breath and keep going. It’s just a bad day!
• Things will get better.
• This is tough, but you’re tougher.
• Tomorrow will be a better day.
• You are a fighter and you never give up.
• You’re stronger than you think. You can handle anything that comes your way.
• You’ve got what it takes! Try just one more time!
Phrases to use when someone is facing a hard decision
• Do what you think is best. I will support you either way.
• Go ahead. It’s a good opportunity. You’ve got my backing.
• If you feel like you can’t handle it alone, you can count on me.
• I support you no matter what.
• I’m behind you 100%.
• I know you must be going through a hard time now, so please tell me what I can do to help.
• If you need any help you can count on me.
• No matter what happens we are on your side.
• No matter what you decide, I will support you.
• What can I do to support you?
• Whatever you do and whatever you choose, I will always be proud of you.
• You can count on me.
Phrases to inspire people
• Believe in yourself.
• Believe you can and you’re halfway there. (Theodore Roosevelt)
• Do the impossible.
• Follow your dreams.
• It always seems impossible until it’s done. (Nelson Mandela)
• Reach for the stars.
• The sky is the limit.
• You’re going to impress everyone!
What should I say if someone encourages me?
• I’m grateful to have you by my side.
• I’m with you every step of the way.
• I have so much to learn from you.
• Thank you for sharing that with me.
• Thanks for everything you do for me.
• Together, we can do anything.
• You brighten up my days.
• You have such a big heart.
• You inspire me to be a better person.
• You make me feel seen and supported.
• You make me look forward to each day.
• You make me so happy.
• You make my life better in so many ways.
• You’re beautiful inside and out.
• You’re my rock, and I appreciate your support.
• You’re not alone, we’re in this together.
• You’re so special to me.
• You’re such a good listener.
• Your kindness makes the world a better place.
• Your thoughtfulness never fails to amaze me.
Photo: Panorama of New York City from the Empire State Building