Surround Yourself with Emotional Bodyguards: The Importance of Having Safe People to Encourage and Support You
Emotionally safe people are crucial for our overall well-being and success. They are the ones who lift us up, encourage us, and support us through our struggles. They create a safe space for us to share our thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or rejection. They remind us of our WHY when we are frustrated and weary. These people can come in many forms, including friends, family, colleagues, and mentors.
When we surround ourselves with emotionally safe people, we are more likely to take risks, pursue our dreams, and be our true selves. We feel seen, heard, and validated, which boosts our self-esteem and confidence. We also feel a sense of belonging, which is a basic human need that contributes to our overall happiness.
On the other hand, when we surround ourselves with emotionally unsafe people, we may experience negative emotions such as fear, anxiety, and self-doubt. These people may criticize us, belittle us, or dismiss our feelings, leaving us feeling insecure and unsupported. This can lead to a cycle of negative self-talk and limit our potential. Remember, whenever we are getting ready to take a risk and make a change in our life, we are so vulnerable and a bit malleable in terms of what we are told. We are especially vulnerable to this if we’ve had any shaming, teasing, bullying or just fearful caregivers.
Therefore, it’s important to be intentional about who we let into our inner circle. We should seek out people who value us for who we are, and who are committed to our growth and well-being. These people will be our cheerleaders, providing encouragement and support when we need it most. Also these are folks who already do the work and value growth and change in their own life.
It’s also important to remember that being emotionally safe goes both ways. We should strive to be emotionally safe for others as well, creating a space where they can feel seen, heard, and supported. This means practicing active listening, being empathetic, and withholding judgment. It also means going back later and saying, “I should have been more supportive of you and not make it about my stuff.” When we create a culture of emotional safety, we foster deeper connections and create a community of support.
Having emotionally safe people around us is essential for our personal and professional growth. They encourage us to be our best selves and provide a safe space for us to explore our thoughts and feelings. By intentionally cultivating a community of emotional safety, we can build stronger relationships and lead happier, more fulfilling lives.
