217 saved#890 of 6,224

National Day of Encouragement

Spread love and kindness on National Day of Encouragement - encourage others with words of affirmation, compliments, and support!

Saturday

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATESeptember 12

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYHealth

SUBCATEGORYSelf-Care

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

It's time to spread some positive vibes and encouragement on National Day of Encouragement, which takes place on September 12! This day was created to remind people that everyone needs a little bit of motivation in their lives. Whether it be from friends, family members or colleagues, a few kind words can go a long way towards making someone feel better. So don't forget to give someone an encouraging word today!

TIMELINE

National Day of Encouragement Timeline

Birth of Encouragement Philosophy

In the 1800s, the philosophy and practice of encouragement as a means of social and personal improvement began to take shape, setting the foundations for future encouragement related activities.

Spread in Education

Encouragement began being emphasized as a crucial aspect in education, adopting it in classroom environments to boost student morale and increase productivity.

Recognition in Psychology

Psychologist and author Dr. Wayne Dyer releases 'You'll See It When You Believe It', emphasizing the power of encouragement and positive affirmation in personal development.

First National Day of Encouragement

A group of high school students from Arkansas first proposed the idea of a National Day of Encouragement, leading to its official recognition and celebration on September 12.

Spread on Social Media

Social media platforms began recognizing the National Day of Encouragement, greatly enhancing its reach and prominence across various age groups and communities.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Day of Encouragement

Send a card

Write a thoughtful note of encouragement to someone who needs it. You can take the time to write a letter, purchase a card, or even use an online service like Hallmark.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer your time

Find a local organization that could use your help and volunteer for National Day of Encouragement. Your efforts can make a difference in someone's life.

PAY

Pay it forward

Do something nice for someone else without expecting anything in return. Pay for someone’s coffee in line behind you, leave a generous tip at your favorite restaurant, or give a hug to someone who looks like they need it.

SPREAD

Spread positivity

Share words of encouragement with friends and family on social media or take the opportunity to connect with people you haven't seen in awhile. Even just telling someone that you appreciate them can make all the difference.

GIVE

Give compliments

Pay attention to those around you and give compliments freely and openly. A simple “you look great today” or “you did an awesome job on that project” can go a long way.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Day of Encouragement is Important

Encouragement is contagious

The practice of encouraging others will continue as long as people recognize its importance. By taking the time to make someone else feel good, it can lead to even more positive moments where everyone benefits from genuine acts of kindness!

Encouragement boosts morale

It's easy to get caught up in negativity and self-doubt, but words of encouragement can help you stay positive and focus on the good. When someone encourages you, it boosts your confidence and motivation to keep going and reach your goals.

Encouragement builds relationships

When we encourage each other, it strengthens our relationships. It shows that we care about each other enough to take the time to give a compliment or an uplifting message, which makes us feel valued and appreciated.