- Categories:
- Special Interest
- Tags:
- AppreciationLifestyle
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every September 12
- Holiday emoji:
- 🤗
National Day of Encouragement arrives every September 12, inviting us to actively spread positivity and support. This day is a powerful reminder that a few heartfelt words can profoundly impact someone’s day. Take the opportunity to motivate, inspire, and uplift those in your community, workplace, and personal life.
Want to sponsor National Day of Encouragement? Learn how
Expected National Day of Encouragement Deals
On National Day of Encouragement, businesses and organizations often focus on internal appreciation and community outreach rather than traditional sales. Expect companies like Hallmark to highlight cards and gifts that convey supportive messages, while mental wellness apps like Headspace might offer special content or free trials focused on positive psychology. Employee recognition platforms could see increased activity, with companies like BetterUp promoting coaching and development. Local businesses might offer small gestures of appreciation to customers or staff. We will update this page with confirmed live programs and initiatives as September 12 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Day of Encouragement
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #DayOfEncouragement. Share stories of workplace encouragement or professional mentorship.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalDayOfEncouragement. Post a photo of someone who inspires you with a caption about their positive impact.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #EncouragementDay. Share a personal anecdote about how encouragement changed your perspective.
National Day of Encouragement Hero
Dale Carnegie
History of National Day of Encouragement
In 2007, a group of young people at the National Leadership Forum at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas, came up with the idea of The Encouragement Project. The group went on to start a celebration which they called the National Day of Encouragement. This was the result of a grim reality — these young people saw a lack of encouragement as one of the main obstacles that the youth face. They recognized the urgent need to help each other overcome negative influences.
Since the day before September 12 is such a tragic day in American history, National Day of Encouragement was also seen as a day where people across the country could get together and support each other through the grief of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. September 12 is therefore also observed as a day to honor the victims and those who continue to be affected by mindless bigotry.
Following the day’s creation, the first official to issue a proclamation was Belinda LaForce. She was the then-mayor of Searcy. The day was recognized on August 22, 2007, and the celebrations were observed on September 12 the very year. Soon afterward, Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe issued a proclamation designating September 12 as “State Day of Encouragement.” President George W. Bush signed a document in 2007 designating the day as the National Day of Encouragement. A Senate resolution for the day was introduced by Arkansas Senator Mark Pryor and was passed by unanimous consent on September 13, 2011. Needless to say, National Day of Encouragement holds significance for all Americans.
National Day of Encouragement timeline
Pope John Paul II survives an attempt on his life, followed by him publicly forgiving his would-be assassin.
Caitlyn Boyle starts an initiative to recognize the true beauty in every woman.
The movement encourages people to do unprompted good deeds.
Italy’s Gianmarco Tamberi and Mutaz Barshim of Qatar share a gold medal at the Tokyo Games.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Day of Encouragement
Local businesses can honor National Day of Encouragement by creating a supportive environment for both staff and customers. Consider implementing an ‘Employee Shout-Out’ board where colleagues can publicly recognize each other’s efforts. Restaurants might offer a ‘Pay It Forward’ option, allowing customers to anonymously purchase a coffee or meal for the next person. Retailers could host a small event featuring local motivational speakers or offer a discount to customers who share a story of encouragement they’ve received. The key is authentic gestures that foster a sense of community and positivity.
National Day of Encouragement FAQs
When is National Day of Encouragement?
National Day of Encouragement 2026 falls on Saturday, September 12. It’s a perfect weekend opportunity to reach out and uplift someone’s spirits.
What is the impact of encouragement?
Encouragement has a profound impact on well-being and performance. Studies show that positive feedback and support can boost self-esteem, increase motivation, and reduce stress in individuals, leading to greater productivity and happiness in both personal and professional settings.
How can I encourage someone effectively?
Effective encouragement involves being specific, sincere, and focusing on effort rather than just outcome. Tell someone exactly what you appreciate about their work or character, and express genuine belief in their abilities. Acknowledge their struggles while affirming their potential.
Is encouragement different from praise?
While related, encouragement and praise have distinct differences. Praise often focuses on a positive outcome or achievement (‘You did a great job!’), whereas encouragement emphasizes effort, progress, and resilience (‘I see how hard you’re working, keep going!’). Encouragement builds self-efficacy and perseverance.
How to Observe National Day of Encouragement
Encourage those around you
Say a word of encouragement to everyone whom you know personally or professionally. There’s no better way to observe National Day of Encouragement than this.
Appreciate a junior
Cheer the achievements of a junior at work on National Day of Encouragement. Celebrate the progress that they have made and encourage them to scale new heights.
Encourage an emerging artist
Encourage a budding artist by buying their art and advertising their work on your social media profile. A simple follow, like, or comment could immensely boost their business.
5 Happy Facts That Will Blow Your Mind
Seahorses get married
Seahorses tend to be monogamous — they intertwine their tails to stick together while floating through the ocean.
Male puppies are chivalrous
Male puppies let female puppies win play fights.
There’s romantic equality in South Korea
There's a Valentine's Day for single people in South Korea, celebrated on March 14.
Cows have best friends
Cows have friends that they spend their days with — they get stressed when they are separated.
Your dog loves you
They are capable of showing affection and in fact, dogs regularly dream about their owners.
Why National Day of Encouragement is Important
A day of love
National Day of Encouragement is ultimately a day of love and kindness. We love this day because it brings out the best in us.
A day to uplift our friends
We all have silent struggles. National Day of Encouragement reminds us that a simple kind word can give someone the boost of encouragement that they might be desperately seeking.
A day to start anew
If you have been struggling to finish a project or simply too scared to start, let this day encourage you to start afresh. Listen to the words of encouragement around and get started on your journey.
National Day of Encouragement dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | September 12 | Saturday |
| 2027 | September 12 | Sunday |
| 2028 | September 12 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | September 12 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | September 12 | Thursday |
Social Media Tips for National Day of Encouragement
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