In the New Testament, Barnabas is called the "son of encouragement". While this famous first century individual left his mark on Christendom, it's his father who fascinates me.

Imagine being known for the level of encouragement that you give to others? That's truly remarkable in an age where we, as fathers, look more to the material blessings for our children than their spiritual legacy.

To a leader, encouragement is like water for a starving traveler. A little goes a long way. The key is to surround yourself with those that can anticipate your need for a pick-me-up. How do you do this? Here are some tips:

Hire "wisdom people". Sure, you need the movers and shakers. The go getters. The change agents. But you also need those who can speak wisdom into an organization. I'm blessed to have two older people on our team, Fran and Kevin, who pull me aside and speak wisdom into my leadership and into the organization.

Listen to the advice of those who've been there and done that. Once you have a few wisdom people around you, go to them for advice and direction. Take what they say to heart. Nothing is more valuable than experience and if they have what you don't, listen intently to what they have to say.

Don't be bashful in admitting your need for encouragement. Leadership is tough and every leader I know needs encouragement to counteract the negatives of work. It's not ignoble to seek encouragement. You don't have to post an ad in the paper looking for it. Your "seeking" might be in the form of a phone call, an email or even a text. The wisdom people around you will sense your need and offer what they can to pick you up.

How are you surrounding yourself with "sons of encouragement"?

*photo by kikiphotos