Anyone will tell you that a strong support network is essential for your overall mental health.
One of our basic needs as humans is sociability. Having friends to talk to when you need it most is one of the easiest ways to vent frustrations or gain emotional support (and a hell of a lot cheaper than a shrink!).
So who is on your team?
I’m talking ON your team here, not IN your team. To me, these are two very different things. I have loads of people IN my teams, my family team (Hubby, kids, siblings) and a work team (my colleagues). However, those people who are ON my team I see as being very different individuals.
Those on my team are there not necessarily sharing in my day to day issues, but available to support me with personal, emotional or work-related stuff if and when I need them. They are a strange, varied and interesting bunch.
Think girlfriends, besties, coaches or mentors – those who’s opinions and support help to guide you and perhaps in part, make you a better person. They also might not be people you speak with every day and you might not even see them face to face, but the fact you can reach out and connect when needed helps to stay your personal well-being.
What About My Partner?
Some may argue that a partner should be included here and perhaps yes, but I really feel that for the most part, a partner is so close to you that ideas, thoughts, and advice can be clouded because of the closeness and particularities of that specific relationship. We all need someone (or several someone’s) to vent too and sometimes, venting about your partner may be high on the list! That’s not to say they are not there for support – it’s a different type of support.
We all have that bunch of people with whom we can down a few drinks and rant, whinge, ask for help and not feel judged. This is the type of team that you need to create for yourself. Your own personal support network. It’s crucial for your own well-being (not to mention sanity).
Why?
For taking the time to focus on you – being able to revive and work on looking after yourself is crucial for enabling you to be yourself and truly support others.
Just Be You, Everyday
