Who are your Cheerleaders?

Some days you just need a boost to your spirits. A recent project may have taken a bad turn, or perhaps you didn’t get that client business you were hoping for, maybe you are struggling with some inner sadness and self-doubt. It happens to everyone — especially creative thinkers with above average empathic skills who may be a little more connected to their emotions. It’s in these times that it’s good to know who your cheerleaders are — those people you can count on to be in your corner, on your side, and have the ability to make you smile, laugh, and being able to see the bright side once more.

Know Your Cheerleaders

Favorite Client
You all have that one client (and if you’re really fortunate you have more than one) who is more friend and ally than merely a paying customer. The one who loves all the work you do for them, recommends you to new prospects, and sings your praises to other departments within their own company.

Inner Circle Friends
There are friends, and then there are friends. The old joke goes “a friend will help you move — a real friend will help you move a body”. An Inner Circle Friend is more like family than friend. You may even feel more connected to them than you do with your actual relatives. You may refer to each other as a brother or sister. You’ve been through a lot of crap together, each of you always there when the other one needs you.

Significant Other
You may be lucky enough to have found a true partner in life. If you have, you know that any burden is easier to bear when you have someone willing to share the load.

When you’re struggling and need to lift your spirits, reach out to one of your cheerleaders and schedule a time to meet. No need to dive into details on whatever problems you may be facing, just tell them that you’ve been thinking about them and that you’re past due for some face-to-face time.

Here’s the twist

Don’t tell them you need cheering up.
Don’t tell them you needed a laugh and put pressure on them to be your clown.

When you get together, look for ways to assist them.
Find out what’s going on in their life since you last spoke. What are they excited about? What do they need help with? And then jump in to lend them your support and assistance.

Nothing will make you feel better faster than helping a person who has always been there for you.