I've rewritten this reply over and over because I'm having trouble finding the words, but honestly, I didn't "find" my people so much as realize they were already there. These past few months have been very tough for me, personally and professionally, and rather than put on a brave face, I chose to be vulnerable -- with friends, former clients, colleagues, and here on Substack. It was scary, but again and again, I was met with kindness and support. It's been a powerful silver lining to realize how very held I feel in this time and to see how much my community has shown up for me.
Ah, I see. I have found a LOT of support here on Substack, and I deeply appreciate my "community" here. I would, though, like to have a physical community. I teach, and have no contacts where I work. Few friends remaining in the city where I live. Making new friends in Japanese culture is, well, challenging. This is not a "Yes, but" kind of reply, and you have given me some ideas. I see what you mean about "they are there already" and will present themselves if I reach out. Thank you for taking the time to respond, Robin! (You are one of "my people!"😉)
Thanks for this Robin, I need this reminder! I find it far too difficult to ask for help (or even accept it when it's offered). It's a good point that maybe brainstorming with a friend could be a less scary way of approaching it. And remembering that people genuinely want to help. 😁
It helps me to remember how I feel when a friend asks for my help. I usually feel honored that they confided in me and eager to support them! When I feel hesitant to reach out, I remind myself that friends feel the same way when I ask them for support, too.
Hi. Robin. Independent overachiever here. Just a question… how do you find “your people”? 🤔
I've rewritten this reply over and over because I'm having trouble finding the words, but honestly, I didn't "find" my people so much as realize they were already there. These past few months have been very tough for me, personally and professionally, and rather than put on a brave face, I chose to be vulnerable -- with friends, former clients, colleagues, and here on Substack. It was scary, but again and again, I was met with kindness and support. It's been a powerful silver lining to realize how very held I feel in this time and to see how much my community has shown up for me.
Ah, I see. I have found a LOT of support here on Substack, and I deeply appreciate my "community" here. I would, though, like to have a physical community. I teach, and have no contacts where I work. Few friends remaining in the city where I live. Making new friends in Japanese culture is, well, challenging. This is not a "Yes, but" kind of reply, and you have given me some ideas. I see what you mean about "they are there already" and will present themselves if I reach out. Thank you for taking the time to respond, Robin! (You are one of "my people!"😉)
Thanks for this Robin, I need this reminder! I find it far too difficult to ask for help (or even accept it when it's offered). It's a good point that maybe brainstorming with a friend could be a less scary way of approaching it. And remembering that people genuinely want to help. 😁
It helps me to remember how I feel when a friend asks for my help. I usually feel honored that they confided in me and eager to support them! When I feel hesitant to reach out, I remind myself that friends feel the same way when I ask them for support, too.
I need to remind myself of this too! It’s funny how we forget that we wouldn’t hesitate to offer things to others that we don’t ask for ourselves.