Don’t Go It Alone – The Value of a Support System

The old adage, "no man is an island," certainly rings true when it comes to setting goals. Even the most strong and independent people can benefit from a bit of help along the path to success. Having a person or a tribe to lean on can make the tough journey seem so much easier to bear. Let me share some of the reasons a support system can be so valuable to your success. Then you can decide just what type of assistance you may need and who should make up your cheerleading squad.

Motivation

Having even one person to cheer you along can make a world of difference to your outlook. When you are feeling down, those words of encouragement are both motivational and encouraging. Having someone say they believe in you is a powerful thing, especially when your belief in yourself is dwindling. Connection and support are basic human needs, particularly during times of change or struggle.

Encouragement

Yep, it is in the name. Support and encouragement are crucial to achieving your goals. Without support, your successes can be really lonely or hollow. Sharing both your achievements and your challenges with someone provides you with a sounding board of encouragement that makes it easier to move onto the next hurdle or goal post.

Information

Sometimes a support system can actually be a source of practical information you need to help you reach your destination. Seek out experts, coaches, knowledgeable friends or others who can answer the tough questions for you and provide you with the resources you need to complete your task. Even if it is possible for you to find the answers on your own, getting help from those who know can make more sense and greatly improve your chances of success.

Accountability

We have touched on this aspect before. It is an important one, so we will address it once more. Having a support system can help to motivate you. They can also provide you with the accountability you need to succeed. Asking a close friend, mentor or even a professional coach to serve as your accountability partner can increase your odds of accomplishing your goal because it forces you to check in and to be aware of your progress.

Compassion

Finally, a support system provides you with much-needed compassion. These people give you a safe place to land when you're feeling discouraged. They will listen with empathy when you struggle. You can lean on them and know they will not judge you. Experiencing compassion from others when you're struggling lets you know you're not alone and takes a bit of the burden off your shoulders.

Now do you see why it is so important to find your tribe when you are working toward a goal? Your support system can make that space between what's possible and impossible seem much smaller. There really is no need to go it alone.