How to create a strong support network

Creating a network of strong supporters can be one of the most rewarding things in life. Your supporters want what is best for you and want you to succeed. They are willing to help you on your journey and make life just a little bit easier. First, we would consider where to look to find your supporters and how you can build for yourself a strong support team.

See where to find your supporters;

Spouse/Partner – This is the first place you should look. Let your partner know the importance of your goals or issues you need to overcome. Let them know that you will need a support system to achieve your goals or get through a difficult time. Your partner should be excited for your progress and should encourage you to reach your goals and to keep going even when the going gets tough.

Family Members – Other family members are great supporters as well.  Communicate closely with your siblings, parents, or even your children. Most times, family members always want what is best for you and are always willing to give you their support even when it is hard to find from others.

Friends – You have to be very careful about those people you choose as friends. If you are sure, you could tell them your plans and what your needs are to reach your goals. They can be great for bouncing ideas off of, inspiring you, or when needed, distract you from hardships you may be facing.

Coworkers – Coworkers can also be great supporters. You and your coworkers spend the majority of your work week together. Creating friendships and relationships with coworkers helps make the work environment less stressful and create a sense of teamwork.

Local Support Groups – This is a more structured form of a support network. These groups are where men and women can go to find others specifically looking for the support of others. These groups are usually geared towards common goals, experiences, or problems. It can be a great place to connect with others who may be going through similar things to you are dealing with.

Volunteer – People build closer relationships, better connections, and more powerful attachments to people when they work together. If you feel the need for deeper connections with other people, try volunteering. You might just live longer and be happier. Not only is volunteering rewarding and gives you a sense of belonging, volunteering for something that you care about will also help you find others with mutual interests. You can build strong bonds with others over something that you both are passionate about.

How do you create a strong bond with your support systems to last you in both good and bad times?

Show Appreciation: It is important to let your biggest supporters know how much you care about them because they also need a feeling of self-worth. Be sure to always thank them for listening, their advice or even just their time. Showing your appreciation is one of the best ways to let some someone know how much their relationship and support means to you.

Communicate Constantly: Staying in touch whenever you get the chance is important. Phone calls, email, and text messages are great ways of letting your supporters know that they are important to you. They in turn will also reciprocate these kind thoughts.

Never Turn Down Help: No matter how big or how small, always accept help with open arms. Accepting their help makes them feel that they are important to you.

Support Yourself by Keeping a Journal:  Writing your thoughts and progress down, either on a daily or weekly basis, can also help you to physically see how far you have come. When you are having a rough week, you can look back and see where you have been successful, and use that as motivation