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Creating Your Support Network
Creating your support network empowers healing, resilience, and growth. Discover the strength of community and the transformative power of shared support network
5/3/20244 min read
Create Your Support Network
I’ve sat in rooms full of people and felt invisible. I’ve been in long term relationships and felt no-one’s listening. I’ve been around family members and felt unseen. So when I say creating your community is important, it comes from a place of understanding.
In this article:
blog / Create your support network
Second Family Vibes
Whether you're dealing with tough times or celebrating your wins, having a bunch of folks to rely on can really help.
For me those folks are in the gym but for you it could be your work colleagues, the book club, the netball team, your neighbours or your little nephew who brings a smile and a hug when he graces your front door. Listen up, whatever you call it, it's called community.
The Gym is Therapy
For me the gym is a place I can connect with like minded people. A place where I can share experiences and a place we share our ups and downs. It's like my second family and they're all there to cheer me on.
There must be hundreds of people at the gym but I only see a fraction of them on my daily grind. I’ll make no bones about it, going to the gym is no easy task. It hurts mentally, as well as physically and I’m not the only one that feels that way.
People train for many different reasons, there’s the girl who wants to stay fit because she wants to conceive.
The guy who was 200+ pounds who has lost over 50 pounds just by walking. The muscle heads who are competing in strongman and bodybuilding competitions.
The ex girlfriend / ex wife who wants to piece everything back together. The fake ones, trying to be perfect impressing anyone who’ll give them the time of day and then there's, little old me.
Head Game
For me, it’s all a head game. Just showing up is the hardest part. Setting my alarm, dragging myself out of bed, getting ready, and being there by 7 a.m. feels like a win in itself. There are so many mornings when my mind says "no," and I have to tell it to shut up and get moving.
But once I’m there, I’m all in. I didn’t wake up at some ridiculous hour just to scroll through social media, I could’ve done that from the comfort of my warm bed. Every session is a victory, and I haven’t even started my workday yet.
Community Are More Than Friends
Exercise, is a chance to heal both in body and mind. A crucial part of this healing comes from the people around you.
Ask anyone who has faced the heartache of losing a loved one, and they’ll likely tell you that someone was there for them. Someone gave them encouragement, guidance, or simply listened. Someone in their community offered support.
It’s often when we feel most vulnerable that we find the courage to make real progress. It’s resilience, inner strength, and hope that carry us through along with a generous helping of community support.
Communities Secret Sauce
Community allows us the power to change. We're able to forge unseen connections and bonds through shared journeys and mutual understanding.
Within our community, we find reassurance in our emotions, recognition of our stories, and a sense of belonging. We come to realise that we’re not alone in our challenges, our struggles are seen, and our achievements applauded.
And in that shared recognition, we find the strength to be vulnerable, to speak openly, and to embrace who we truly are. One of the most beautiful aspects of community is its ability to hold space for healing.
Community Strength In Numbers
Everything starts at one. One step, leads to another and so we progress. So always start with yourself. Turn up for you and you'll notice others will do the same. Then share your story verbally with others and you’ll notice you have similar fears and struggles.
Celebrate each hurdle and celebrate each win, but don’t be selfish. It's about being open to sharing, listening, and supporting each other in the safe environment of the community.
Welcome the chance to connect, to be vulnerable, and grow together. Think of yourself as a paint brush bringing colour and joy to others. Spread that energy, far and wide. You’ll soon see the difference it makes.
Reach Out and Connect
I encourage you to take a chance and reach out, to open yourself up and make a connection. I did the same through Cayla's letters, and since then, I’ve read some deeply moving stories from people all across the world.
There’s a common thread through each story, struggles, often with umpteen obstacles in the way. Yet, with determination and an unyielding drive to succeed, they somehow manage, one way or another, to reach the other side.
I’m especially drawn to the saying, "on the other side of pain lies relief." I’ve found it to be true, the discomfort I experience today leads to the peace I seek tomorrow.
Frequently asked questions
What makes building a support network essential?
Building a support network is essential as it provides guidance, encouragement, and resilience, helping you face challenges and improve well being.
What are some small ways to unwind after connecting with my support network?
After a support group meeting, unwind with a wax melt to maintain the calming energy. The warm, soothing aroma can help you reflect and relax, allowing you to process shared experiences in a peaceful setting.
How can I begin creating a support network?
To create a support network, start by connecting with trusted friends, family, and colleagues, then seek like minded groups or communities that share your interests and values.
Who are the key people in your support network?
Your support network includes trusted friends, family, colleagues, and community members who offer encouragement, guidance, and understanding.
Who can be part of your support network?
Your support network can include friends, family, mentors, colleagues, and community groups who offer reliable emotional and practical support.
How can I create a relaxing environment for my support network gatherings?
Enhance the atmosphere of your support group gatherings by using wax melts with calming scents. The gentle fragrance can help create a welcoming, serene environment, encouraging open conversations and a sense of relaxation.
