Even the most independent individuals benefit from having a support system.
A support system is a group of people we can go to regardless of time.
While we can accomplish things alone and, more often than not, get things done faster, it is better to have a support system. Not only in case something goes wrong but also when things go well. We need a group of people, either small or large, where we can go to celebrate the glory but also where we can go and express our concerns.
When you see the winners of the Olympics, you always hear them say thank you to the people that stood by their side and helped them in some shape or form. More often than not, it’s their parents, family, coach, or significant other. Or when you see an artist win an important award. They always shout out their support system. Either be family, friends, or fans. Their support system will know its struggles to reach that spot and help them acknowledge the moment. It makes getting the goal, the award, the achievement more meaningful.
A support system provides us with psychological safety.
A support system is a group of people who are there to provide respect, care, and guidance for our best interests. A support system can guide our personal, professional, and spiritual life. I still remember when I was starting my career in the tech field. No one in my family had gone through the tech route, and I felt alone. But I was able to lean on my manager and colleagues, and they were able to provide me with some insightful information that later on impacted me positively. In this example, my manager and colleagues were my support system.
A support system can fill in the void in your life that is missing. That can be many things, emotionally, spiritually, and even intellectually. A support system can be made up of family members, friends, neighbors, teachers, colleagues, or sometimes people you haven’t met face to face but that you know they want the best for you.
A support system enriches our knowledge.
The truth is we all have a support system of our own or are part of someone else’s support system. Sometimes we don’t see the people as such, or they might not say it exactly. The way I like to think about it is if something good were to happen right now, who would you call / message / meet up with? Who would you reach out to if you need help with a significant decision you were about to make? Or who would you contact if something went bad? Keep these people in your life. For some scenarios, you would reach out to a specific group of people, and for others, a different group of people. And that is fine. Ultimately, they form part of your support system.
To sum up, a support system helps us hold it together but is only effective if we use them. We need to stop thinking, “I don’t rely on anyone.” I know it can be challenging, but it is essential that you feel comfortable talking about your circumstance. Having a support system will enhance our personal growth.