IN the past, I spoke about the importance of networking in professional settings. Networking is essential for professional growth and development. However, have you considered how networking can impact your life for the better? In life, there will be hardships and challenges, but one of the best ways to cope with hardship is to maintain a positive and strong support system. Oftentimes, people mistake large gatherings of friends and relatives for a strong support system. Just like networking in our professional relationships, you can meet someone at an event, but how do you maintain that connection? Do you mutually support the other person, or is the relationship one-sided? You can have a large group of friends, but that does not equate to a strong support system.
Do not confuse quality with quantity. A strong support system is a network of friends, family, counsellors, community leaders, or even resources that can positively impact your emotional, mental, and even physical well-being, especially during times of crisis. The most important aspects of a strong support system are trust, mutual respect, and the ability to provide both help and understanding when needed. Most times, a strong support system offers emotional or moral support. Whether it’s when your friends call to check in on you after a breakup or when a family member provides a safe space for you to vent about work hardships.
They assist us in ways they can, with the hope of reducing stress and anxiety. A strong support group can also offer physical assistance, such as helping an elderly person purchase their groceries if they’re unable to do so themselves. Having people around who support you, in both good and bad times promotes resilience and improves mental health. We are social beings and, as such, need people around us to promote social and emotional stability. You must surround yourself with people who genuinely want what’s best for you. A positive support group will also motivate you in your life choices, create healthy coping mechanisms, and foster a sense of belonging. Personally, one of the most important aspects of my support group is the accountability they provide. My support group ensures that they promote growth by offering me decision-making tools while reminding me of my values as I make life choices.
The world can be very unkind at times, and it is unfair to choose unwisely who your closest loved ones are. I encourage you all to support those in your support circles further as well. It is unkind to only receive support without offering any in return, especially in times of need. While some people do not look forward to anything in return when they help you, you should consider giving support back if they’re in need or ever ask for help in any way you can. In the midst of chaos, we need people around us to support us. It’s okay to ask for help and remember that you aren’t alone in your struggle and journey.