Connections: Building a Strong Support Network

Welcome to another empowering episode of Chasing Brighter! If you’re ready to make midlife your best life, this month’s episode is for you.

In September, we’re diving deep into the theme of purpose, specifically exploring how building a strong support network can enhance your personal growth and help you achieve your goals. Whether you’re focused on career growth, family life, or personal development, having a network of people you trust can make all the difference.

Why Connection Matters

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: connection is crucial to happiness. In fact, psychologist and author Dr. Susan Pinker states, “Social integration — the number of people you interact with regularly — is one of the best predictors of longevity.” A strong support network provides emotional, professional, and practical help to guide you through life’s challenges, stay accountable, and motivate you to keep going.

“Connection is why we’re here. It is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.“
Brené Brown, author of Dare to Lead

This month, we emphasize that support networks are key to nurturing your sense of purpose. Whether you’re working through personal challenges or chasing your career dreams, connection plays an essential role in staying grounded and focused.

The Three Pillars of a Support Network

In this episode, we discussed the three types of support crucial to achieving a sense of purpose:

“The key to maintaining change is a support system that offers encouragement and accountability.”

The Power of Habit, author Charles Duhig g

Emotional Support: This is the bedrock of any strong network. “In times of stress, our social support networks offer critical psychological first aid,” says Dr. Kelli Harding, a clinical psychiatrist and author of The Rabbit Effect. Emotional support helps you manage stress, provides encouragement, and reminds you that you’re not alone when facing difficulties. The journey to finding purpose can be tough, but sharing the highs and lows with others makes it more manageable.
Knowledge Sharing: Beyond emotional support, there’s the power of shared knowledge. In the words of renowned business coach and author, John Maxwell, “Teamwork makes the dream work, but a vision becomes a nightmare when the leader has a big dream and a bad team.” The same applies to personal growth — learning from others’ experiences, whether through friends, mentors, or even podcasts and books, can help you navigate your own challenges.
Accountability and Motivation: Finally, we can’t forget the importance of motivation and accountability. As human beings, we’re wired for connection and thrive when we know someone else is there to push us toward our goals. Having regular check-ins with friends, colleagues, or even a mentor ensures you’re not only dreaming but also actively taking steps to reach those dreams. Accountability turns aspirations into action.

Book & Article Recommendations

For those eager to dive deeper into the power of connection and support networks, here are three recommended reads to expand your knowledge:

The Rabbit Effect by Dr. Kelli Harding
This book explores the science of kindness and how our relationships — from the people we talk to every day to our broader social circles — significantly impact our physical and mental well-being.
The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg
Duhigg’s book breaks down how habits form and the critical role that community plays in helping people make and maintain life-changing habits. It’s an excellent resource for those looking to make lasting changes with the support of others.
“Why Your Friends Are More Important Than You Think” by Lydia Denworth — In this thought-provoking piece, Denworth explores the importance of friendship as an essential component of health and longevity, providing compelling data to show how social networks shape our lives.

How to Build Your Support Network

Ready to start building or strengthening your own support network? Here are three simple tips to help you get started:

Start with Common Interests: Find groups, communities, or individuals who share similar goals. Whether through local meetups, Facebook groups, or even casual conversations at your kids’ activities, common interests are a great way to foster connections. Dr. Marisa Franco, author of Platonic, points out that “shared interests make connections easier and more meaningful.” Start with what you love!

Leverage Existing Relationships: You’d be surprised how many people in your existing circle can introduce you to others. Don’t be afraid to share your goals and passions. You never know who might offer valuable advice or connections. As sociologist Dr. Mark Granovetter explains in his theory of “The Strength of Weak Ties,” those casual acquaintances and second-degree connections can often provide opportunities you never anticipated.

Be Genuine: Building relationships is about mutual support, not seeking favors. Approach networking with authenticity and curiosity. When you offer value and support to others, you create deeper, more meaningful connections.

Final Thoughts

As we wrap up this episode, we hope it inspires you to build or deepen your support network. Remember, connection isn’t just about making contacts; it’s about forming meaningful relationships that enhance your journey toward purpose.

When we actively engage with others, we access opportunities, gain support, and foster collaboration that helps us grow and succeed. As Brené Brown says, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of connection,” and by being open, genuine, and curious, you’ll find the right people to accompany you on your journey.

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