Creating a Healthy and Strong Support System

Take a look at your last 5 texts or phone calls. When you see those names, does a smile come to your face? 

Or do you find yourself holding your breath and sighing, hoping to avoid the interaction? Our support system is the social network of friends and family we can turn to for advice and emotional support. A healthy support system is one that brings benefits, lifting you up and grounding you when needed. 

Benefits of a Healthy & Strong Support System

Did you know it has been shown that people with a good support system are healthier, live longer, and are overall happier? Your tribe can help you be more resilient too! In times of grief or stress, in good times, when trying to reach goals, or when dealing with a crisis; a healthy support system can improve how you feel. On the other hand, a lack of support can result in loneliness, which has been linked to various health problems. 

“.. the reason life works at all is that not everyone in your tribe is nuts on the same day.” ― Anne Lamott

You don’t need a huge network; you need the right network. You get to choose, be it family, friends, colleagues, or neighbors. You may even find your tribe through life changes such as illness, retirement, the loss of a loved one, or trauma. 

Tips for Creating a Healthy & Strong Support System

Building your tribe takes time and the effort to connect with people in the spaces you live. Connection is key, so let’s look at some things to consider when curating your support system.

Start with WHO. 

Surround yourself with people that respect you just as you are. Look for kindness and those that are looking out for your best interests. Think of it as your front row. Whom do you want sitting in your front row? Are there some there that need to be moved back a row or two, or even removed? It’s ok to unfriend, unfollow, and delete. This creates space for what you truly need. 

Hobbies, Neighbors, Pets & Plants.  

Tapping into a new hobby is a great way to forge new connections. It allows you to cast a wider net. This holds true for getting to know your neighbors as well. Neighbors can be anyone we see regularly whether at home, work, or the local coffee shop. And don’t forget our furry, feathered, scaly, or leafy friends. They give unconditional love and listen with zero judgment.

Tap into a professional. 

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Therapists, counselors, and coaches are a healthy step toward building a strong support system. Here you find support for not only daily issues but also those deeper issues too. Many coaches have a community built into their programs like inner circles and group coaching. 

Balance & Patience

Building your tribe takes time and effort but it is completely worth it. Be patient while creating trust, remembering it’s a two-way street. Practice a balanced approach. Pick which area is the priority now but don’t neglect other areas. You’ll be glad you have a system in place to turn to in times of need, so nurture now. An added benefit, you’ll also find that you are there for your tribe as well, and what an amazing feeling that is!

I see you, and YOU are beautiful!