We all feel down from time to time. There might be too much on our plate, too many worries to handle, and too many problems in the world to feel secure in any choice we make. No one knows what tomorrow may bring. At times like these, it’s essential to know that you are not alone. You don’t have to carry your burden all by yourself.
This is why having a confidence buddy is so important. It might be a trusted friend or a special family member. All that matters is that you feel comfortable reaching out to this person for support and that they can reach out to you in return.
In Psychology Today, they emphasize the importance of having this social support in place. Those who have a strong network tend to handle their stress levels better and have stronger self-esteem.
Try this: Often the best way to build a strong network is to be a good friend/confidence buddy first. Check-in with people you would like to grow a stronger connection with and see how they’re doing. Start a conversation anyway you feel most comfortable and then keep it going.
Storytime: While I project an outgoing persona at writer events and in public, I’m actually really shy. Talking to people I don’t know well makes my stomach knot up and my throat feels tight. This makes making and keeping friends really hard because it’s nearly impossible to make a friend if you struggle with reaching out. One of my biggest regrets is not forming friendships with other moms when my kiddos were small and I really needed a friend who I could swap playdates with and talk to.
I ended up finding my support network through my writing career and being able to spend time with like-minded people. Regular chapter meetings meant I got to see them every few weeks and catch up. Even now, we meet online and check in on each other. It was their support that has helped me meet my goals.
