Happy February!
A new month brings a new playlist and a new wellbeing reflection. And this month is more than just heart shaped candies and bright red colors. It is truly a time where we can take a step back and check-in with the people who we consider to be part of our support systems.
Support systems are made up of people, things, and activities that provide support, respect, and care. The phrase is broad for a reason. They come in all shapes and sizes, and evolve over time. The ways that we develop as individuals can impact what our support system looks like. Here are a few of the forms that support systems can take and ways you can acknowledge and appreciate them in your life.
- First off, support systems are not always external! You are just as much of a friend to yourself as the people you are closest to. The way you treat yourself is every bit as important as the way others treat you. Sooo…treat yourself the way you would a good friend, and start by asking yourself how you can be a better friend to yourself this month. One of my favorite graphics that illustrates this is:
- Next, the people in your support system can come about in different and unexpected ways. It’s important not to count anyone out! We normally stay inside our bubble of friends but the people who support you are everywhere on campus and beyond. From our team at the Student Wellness Center to the barista who makes your coffee, people are here to support you directly and indirectly. As a community, the way we interact with people we don’t know impacts the environment we’re in. Challenge yourself this month and try to connect with one person who may have supported you indirectly.
- Lastly, your support system comes down to your values. You’ll have different values that you look for in friendship than others, and what works for them might not work for you. It’ll sometimes take trial and error and that’s okay. It’s not going to be a linear journey, but the end result when you finally find your people will definitely be worth it.
For me it was more recent and I realized that some of the friendships I had in the past just didn’t fit ME personally. There will be some temporary friendships that won’t work out, but I like to think that each one comes with its own set of lessons that teach us what works and what doesn’t. If you’re uncertain, re-examine your values. What do you want in a friendship? Are those values reflective in your support system? If not, how can you add them?
At the end of the day, support systems can be your friends, family, yourself, the activities that bring you joy, and the little things you do for yourself each day. Take a second look at your values and the people around you.
Wishing you much joy this February and always!