We were not put on this earth to live alone or to operate in isolation. We were created to live in community and to help and support one another. And just like you help and support other people in your life, you also have to allow others to return the favour.
Let’s be real, we all need help sometimes. So many of us serve faithfully on someone else’s support team. We are the first person on the call list because people know that they can count us to be there during their time of need.
On one hand, we fear being vulnerable and opening ourselves up too much to others. We don’t want people in our personal business or judging us, our shortcomings, our actions, or our decisions.
On the other hand, we don’t want anyone to know that we don’t have it all together or that we really don’t how to do something.
You need to build your own support system and you need the right people in place. Your support system should also include the following people:
* Supportive Friends:
You need supportive friends. Not the ones that like your photo on Facebook, or the ones that are friendly towards you up close and talk behind your back. Your real friends, the friends that you can depend on and trust with your confidences.
* Coach or mentor:
Invest in yourself, get a coach or find a mentor. Someone that has been where you are, see where you’re going, and can help you get to where you want to be.
* Accountability partner:
Now, this can very well be your coach, mentor, spouse or a friend. But you need someone who will help hold you accountable when it comes to taking action in your life and accomplishing your goals. While this person may have to get tough sometimes and give it to you straight, they are a critical part of your support team.
* Like-minded people:
People who share your goals, values and ambitions. This group understands where you are in your journey because they too are on their own journey. They will help lift you up and keep you moving in the right direction.
When you have the right support system in place, asking for help and being able to receive support becomes easier. You get the help and support you need without worrying about being too vulnerable or exposed.
Remember, seeking support and asking for help is not a sign of weakness. In fact, it’s a sign of strength because you are strong and wise enough to know when to call in extra forces and who to go to for help and support.
Courtesy: www.thriveglobal.com
