Encouragement comes in many forms. One of my favorites is prayer. Let me tell you how I do it. First, instead of telling God what I want or need (there is a time and place for that, usually doesn't provide encouragement however), I simply ask Him what should I pray to you about today? Then I take some time to be still. Thoughts will come. Then I'll pray. You know what? I'm always encouraged by it. Every time. Next time you need something, want something or just plain are distraught, ask God who should I pray for and what should I pray. Come with an empty slate and watch what happens. When you realize that you are talking to God, as He would direct you, encouragement is the natural byproduct.
This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us (1 John 5:14 NIV)