In the Western world, we often pride ourselves on independence. But the truth is that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. It's a powerful tool to help you thrive and reach your full potential.
Think "interdependence' versus independence.
Support can come in many forms. You can have emotional support, logistical support, health support, organizational support, and so on. Consider the types of support you need today and in the future and put them into place.
Having support increases your possibilities in life:
Look at past successes. Take inventory of all the times you've been successful in the past. What support did you have during those successes? Which people were most helpful to you? What support did you not have that would have been helpful?
Do you have similar people in your life who can fill those same roles? Can other tools support your efforts, such as an organizational calendar?
Examine past failures. Now, consider your significant shortcomings. What support did you need but lacked? Do you have people or other tools that can fulfill those roles? Avoid repeating your past mistakes by building the proper support systems.
Project yourself into the future. Consider what you want to accomplish in the future. Consider your current challenges. What do you need to address the challenges you currently face and expect to face down the road? Think carefully and make a list.
Research support groups. There is probably already a group that can help you. Whether you need support in your public speaking efforts, controlling your eating habits, dealing with a cancer diagnosis, or managing a troubled child, some groups can help.
Make sure to expand your idea of a support group to formal settings. If you're passionate about something, like becoming a professional bowler, joining a bowling league can provide a sense of community and support. Even casual, recreational groups can be essential to your support system.
Find a mentor. The right mentor can be the most critical part of your support system. They have the experience of seeing the hidden potholes in the road ahead. A great mentor won't just help you with your challenges; she'll help you avoid them in the first place. Look for someone who has achieved what you aspire to and who is willing to share their knowledge and experience with you. A mentor can provide invaluable guidance and support on your personal and professional growth journey.
Consider non-person support systems. It's not just people who provide support. Your planning and organizational tools support your efforts, too. For instance, your alarm clock supports your efforts to get out of bed on time. Your gym membership supports your efforts to get into shape. Even a well-structured to-do list can be a form of support. Think about what tools or resources can aid your personal and professional growth journey.
What other tools do you need to thrive? Do you need a meditation cushion, a pair of running shoes, or a Russian language course?
Go online. There's at least as much online as there is offline. Find others with the same goals and spend some time in online communities. These communities can provide a wealth of knowledge, advice, and encouragement. Remember that you can use Skype to speak face-to-face with someone on the other side. It's easy to find like-minded people on the internet, and they can offer valuable support and insights.
Remember, most people in your life are looking for ways to make a difference. They'll be relieved and grateful to support you in your journey. Feel free to reach out and ask for the help you need. You'll find that you're not alone in your struggles.
The more support you have, the easier life can be. The more support you have, the bigger the goals you can accomplish. Examine your past and your suspected future and procure the support you need to thrive. Avoid the desire to take on the world by yourself. It's unnecessary and creates additional obstacles.
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