There’s a silent message we’ve been fed: You should have it all figured out, by yourself.
In today’s hyper-curated world of “boss babe” culture and self-made stories, independence is often glorified as the ultimate badge of honor. Let me challenge that idea true strength lies in support. I know firsthand how isolating it can be to walk through life, unsure of your direction, unclear on who you are becoming, and feeling like you should have all the answers. For years, I tried to carry it all on my own until I discovered the profound transformation that happens when you are truly supported.
We’ve seen over and over again: women don’t just need support we thrive because of it. It’s strength. It’s wisdom. It’s how we were created to function. In fact, our very design as human beings tells the truth that culture tries to silence:
“It is not good for man to be alone.” (Genesis 2:18)
God didn’t create us for isolation all the time; He created us for connection, intimacy, mutual strengthening, and support. Whether you know it or not, you were wired for fellowship with Him and with others. This he emphasizes by saying he sets the solitary in families (Ps 68:6). I know there is need for quiet time and retreats in your life, create a routine for them in your life.
In my late teens and early twenties, my support system was made of my maternal granny, my siblings, two of my friends and their families. They helped me navigate through various seasons at the time and I am truly grateful for them. That period gave me many of the lessons, guidance and wisdom that have shaped my life.
Everyone needs a system of support for different reasons, in different seasons. You may need it to:
- Navigate transitions like career shifts, identity rediscovery
- Gain clarity when facing big decisions and uncertainties
- Find comfort during a difficult emotional season
- Stay consistent in pursuing a goal
Support gives you, perspective, strength, accountability, and when needed; rest. You should not feel weak for needing it and you need to be wise enough to build it. We are social beings; we thrive in life when we make deposits and investments in our social reserves which can be leveraged when needed.
8 Key Areas Where Support Makes the Difference
Here are eight essential areas of life where having support is not only helpful, it’s often the difference between survival and thriving.
- Informational Support
This is about having access to the right knowledge at the right time.
You need this when: you’re making career decisions, starting a business, or navigating personal challenges.
Who to ask: God, mentors, coaches, books, communities and experts.
- Emotional Support
Life comes with emotional weight, and having safe people or spaces to talk, cry, and heal is essential. You need this when: grief, shame, anxiety, or confusion becomes too much to bear alone. There is a book authored by yours truly “Disburdening: building blocks for recover from past pain”. It is a great resource.
Who to ask: a therapist, life coach, trusted friend, or support group.
- Instrumental Support
This is practical, hands-on help that moves you closer to your goals like childcare, help with tips, tasks, funding, resources or accountability systems. You need this when: you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or need momentum.
Who to ask: family, church, community groups, virtual assistants, partners.
- Spiritual Support
Your spirit and soul need tending nourishment. God’s word and his love shows you what you are designed for (fellowship) and who you are.
Spiritual guidance is crucial especially when you are struggling in an area of your life. You need this when: you feel disconnected, lost, or spiritually dry.
Who to ask: Holy Spirit, Pastor, prayer partners and spiritual mentors.
- Social Support
We all need an inner circle of friends, people to celebrate with, share joys, and do life alongside. You need this when: you’re growing, evolving, and craving meaningful connection.
Who to ask: friends, interest groups, purpose-driven communities.
- Directional Support
Sometimes, you need clarity for the next phase of life. You need this when: you’re transitioning, pivoting careers, or discovering purpose.
Who to ask: God, coach, mentor, trusted leader, wise elder.
- Creative & Accountability Support
Ideas are nothing without execution. You need a system and people that keep you aligned with your purpose. You need this when: your energy dips, or procrastination creeps in.
Who to ask: accountability partners, mastermind groups, project managers, goal buddies.
- Relational and Parenting Support
Navigating friendships, family tension, or dating and parenting require insight and maturity. Having people who model healthy relationships support in this area helps maintain balance and sanity is gold.
Who to ask: Older friends, married couples you admire, family elders, parenting communities, neighbors.
Support is not a one-way street! Many people walk away from great relationships simply because they never learned to reciprocate. Yes, you’re allowed to ask for help. A few ways how you should ask:
- How can I show up for others too?
- What do I bring to the table?
- Am I a friend who listens, not just speaks?
Giving and receiving support creates trust and depth. And the truth is, we all want to be supported but we need to learn to support others too.
In an age that celebrates the “I did it all by myself” narrative, we are reminded by the wisdom of generations before us:
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
Support doesn’t make you weak. It makes you wise.
While society may glorify the lone star, God built you for community, connection, and companionship.
Want support as you grow into the woman you’re becoming?
Join us at The Propelled Life Community where your life, your leadership and your legacy matter.