Choosing Your Support System

by | Jan 4, 2023 | Relationships, Support

If you’re seeking to expand your social circle and support system, you may be considering what qualities you should look for in people that you choose. When choosing your support systems, you hope to choose people that support you in both good times and bad times, and whom we can establish a solid, lasting relationship with. There are many qualities that we can look for when developing relationships, but when seeking supportive individuals, there are a few key characteristics that can help us identify the right people for us.

When choosing your support system, look for people who are dependable

Nobody likes unreliability, since naturally we seek stability and equilibrium in both relationships and environments, and when you need support, you’ll want to trust that you can find it in those around you. When people are dependable in their efforts in their commitments, such as work or academic endeavors, they are often dependable in relationships as well.

Building a relationship with someone you can count on is essential to feeling supported, because when you’re having a tough time, you know your support system will be there to help you get back on your feet. 

Choose people who have similar values to you

Choosing individuals who have similar values can help us feel aligned in our goals and purpose, and can make supporting one another easier. They will understand what’s important to you and why, and can help you to reach your goals because they understand, on a personal level, how to help. Choosing your support system should include people who have similar values to you can also help you to connect and have more meaningful conversations and relationships.

Choose people who motivate and encourage you 

In an effort to find support in both the good and bad times, it is important to choose people who motivate and encourage you to be your best self. If you feel that you can rely on your support system when taking appropriate risks, like starting a new business or planning a big move, it will be easier for you to take positive action in your life. Plus, when you’re feeling down, your support system can help you stay motivated and encourage you towards positive thoughts and actions.

Choose people who understand give-and-take

Relationships aren’t a one-way street, and as much as you seek from a relationship should be what you are willing to give. In your times of need for support, you want someone who can stand by you, and you must be willing to give that to your support system in return when they are in need. Relationships have ups and downs, but if both parties are committed to supporting one another, it makes things even easier, more reliable, and helps you lean on another when you truly need to.

Learn more about the author here: About Therapist Samantha Nolan, MA, LPC, ATR-P- Barnum Counseling

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

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