By Elizabeth Harrison
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
"Those who are lifting the world upward and onward are those who encourage more than criticize." This powerful phrase from Elizabeth Harrison inspires reflection on how we influence those around us. As you explore the Elizabeth Harrison quote about encouragement, consider how each word shapes the choices we make every day. Connection, motivation, and the spirit of moving forward come alive in this simple statement. Whether at work, at home, or among friends, these words have a down-to-earth relevance that many of us can feel in our own lives.
What Does This Quote Mean?
The heart of this Elizabeth Harrison quote about encouragement centers on the idea that positive change is driven by support and motivation, not by constant fault-finding. On the surface, Harrison is saying that the people who help "lift the world upward and onward" are not necessarily the critics or those who point out flaws, but rather the ones who cheer others on, offer helpful words, and celebrate progress, no matter how small.
Digging deeper, the quote suggests that true leadership and impact in life come from those who build others up. Encouragement works like a gentle push or a hand reaching out — it helps someone take on a challenge or keep going during tough times. Criticism, even if well-intended, can weigh people down if it’s not balanced with uplifting input.
Metaphorically, "lifting the world" means creating an environment where goals can be reached and dreams pursued. It is about shifting the focus from negativity and fault-finding to being a source of support. Harrison emphasizes that the real progress-makers are those who give people the confidence to attempt, try again, and grow. Where criticism might stop someone in their tracks, encouragement sparks another attempt and fuels hope.
This quote also carries a gentle reminder: the energy you project into the world matters. When you choose to encourage those around you, you become one of the people helping to move things forward — both personally and for your wider community.
How Can You Use This Quote in Life?
You can put the spirit of the Elizabeth Harrison quote about encouragement into practice in everyday life. Here are a few real-world ways to step into this positive, uplifting mindset:
1. Give Specific Praise:
Instead of generic compliments, notice and point out the actual efforts or improvements someone makes. Telling a coworker, "I noticed how well you handled that difficult conversation," goes much further than a simple "Good job." This tailored encouragement builds confidence and momentum.
2. Choose Uplifting Feedback Before Critique:
Next time you're about to give someone advice, start with what is working. For instance, in a team meeting, highlight progress before mentioning roadblocks. This puts everyone in a motivated mood to listen and grow instead of shutting down.
3. Practice Self-Encouragement:
Sometimes, we are our own harshest critics. Borrow from the Elizabeth Harrison approach by speaking to yourself with the same encouragement you would offer a friend. Acknowledge your efforts, not just your mistakes, and use positive language to keep moving forward.
4. Support Others During Setbacks:
When someone faces struggles or setbacks, be the voice that helps them see what's still possible. Simple words like "You've got this" or "I believe in your ability to figure it out" can make a huge difference in someone's drive to keep going.
5. Build a Culture of Encouragement:
In your family, friendships, or workplace, make encouragement a habit. Start meetings with shout-outs, send thank-you notes for help received, or share positive moments at dinner. One person's shift toward encouragement can ripple out and inspire a whole group to do the same.
Living out this quote means watching for the moments where you can lift others, not just correct mistakes. Encouragement brings out hidden strengths, fosters trust, and slowly moves the world onward, one person at a time.
✨ The Motivation Message
Encouragement changes everything — and you have the power to share it every single day! The world needs people who lift others up instead of tearing them down. Whether you're cheering on a colleague, helping a friend through a tough time, or simply giving yourself some kindness, your support lights a spark. You might not solve all the big problems overnight, but every word of encouragement builds a stronger, more hopeful world 🌎.
Doubt and criticism are easy; real strength is in finding what's good and giving it wings! Give yourself permission to notice the positive, in yourself and others. You've got the power to encourage, and that power moves mountains. Next time you're tempted to point out a flaw, try offering encouragement and see the shift it creates.
If you want to see the world rise, start today by choosing encouragement over criticism! We believe in the difference you'll make — now go out and spread that upward energy! 🚀
About Elizabeth Harrison
Elizabeth Harrison, who was born in 1849 and died in 1927, was a pioneering American educator best known for her work in early childhood education. Founder of the National Kindergarten College in Chicago, she dedicated her life to supporting the development of both children and teachers. Harrison believed that nurturing, encouragement, and warmth were central to real growth — whether in the classroom or in life beyond it.
Her ideas were shaped by a deep respect for the potential in every person. As a writer and leader, Elizabeth Harrison argued that education and encouragement should go hand in hand, and that true progress depends on lifting each other up. The quote about encouragement reflects her lifelong mission: making the world better by building up those around us, rather than tearing them down with criticism.
Elizabeth Harrison's broader message championed the transformative power of positive support. In all her work, she inspired others to move the world "upward and onward" through small, daily acts of kindness and encouragement — an example that continues to resonate today.
