Build a Support Network: Don’t Wait Until You Need It

Resilience isn’t a skill you just "have" — it’s a muscle. You have to work it, feed it, and strengthen it just like your body. But here’s the problem: most people don’t realize their resilience is weak until life knocks them down, and they find out the hard way they have no strength left to get back up.

One critical part of building resilience? Your support network. We aren’t meant to do life alone. And here’s where I’m going to challenge you today: Identify 3 people you can lean on. I don’t care if it feels awkward, or if you’re "too busy" to reach out—those are excuses. Right now, list 3 people you know will be there for you when things hit the fan.

Now, you’re thinking: “What if I don’t want to look weak or needy?” or “What if I’m not sure how to start the conversation?”

I get it — reaching out can feel overwhelming. But guess what? That’s just your fear talking. Silence it.

Here’s what you’re going to do: reach out to each of those 3 people today with a simple check-in. I’m not asking you to write them a novel. I’m talking about something as straightforward as:

• "Hey, just checking in. How are you?"

• "Wanted to catch up, it’s been a minute. How’s everything going?"

• "Thinking of you today, how have you been?"

Notice something? These aren’t conversations where you’re asking for help. You’re simply opening the door, keeping the lines of communication strong, so when the time does come, you’ve already built the foundation.

Stop waiting until you’re in crisis mode. Building your support network isn’t about looking needy; it’s about being smart and prepared. The people in your life want to support you — you just have to be bold enough to make the first move.

So, stop hesitating. Find your 3. Check in today. You’ll be glad you did when that resilience muscle needs to flex.