Building a Supportive Community

Who’s your tribe, your team, your people? These are the ones who lift you up, share in your wins, and stand by you through life’s ups and downs. They’re the connections that make life a little brighter, a little easier, and a lot more meaningful. Take a moment to think about the people in your life and the roles they play—whether they’re the friend you call for advice, the family member who’s always there, or even the neighbor who’s up for a quick chat. Who are the people who truly support you, and what roles do they play in your life? Let’s dive in and get to know your “tribe” a little better.

Think of your relationships like a tree with “leaves”, “branches”, and “roots”. Each part of the tree represents different types of connections we have in life—each one playing a unique role in our journey.

 1. Leaves – The Temporary Connections

The leaves on our tree are like those more temporary relationships that might come and go. They’re here for a season, adding a bit of color and variety but maybe not sticking around for the long haul. Think of the people you chat with at the gym, your neighbors you only see at the mailbox, or the friendly coworker from that one project last year. They add a nice touch to our lives, bringing energy and social interaction, but they’re not as deeply connected. Just like leaves come back in different seasons, some of these connections might pop up again later, and that’s okay!

2. Branches – The Meaningful But Sometimes Fragile Connections

 Next up, the branches! These relationships are stronger and more supportive than the leaves. They’re the friendships and family connections that often provide a solid source of support and comfort. Think of a close friend you can call when you’re having a rough day, a cousin you see at every family gathering, or maybe a mentor who’s guided you through big life decisions. These connections have some strength—they help us stretch and grow. But just like branches can snap under too much pressure, some of these relationships may not survive every challenge. Life can shift, and sometimes branches change or even fall away. But while they’re here, they help us grow and reach new heights.

3. Roots – The Deep, Lasting Connections

And finally, we have the roots—the relationships that are rock-solid and deeply nourishing. These are the people who are there through thick and thin, who know us inside and out, and who have stood by us through the storms. These relationships go beyond just shared interests or fun times; they’re the ones that make us feel grounded, stable, and supported, no matter what. Think of a sibling who’s been there through every high and low, a lifelong best friend who feels more like family, or a partner who truly gets you. Roots are unwavering, and they’re what keep us standing when things get tough. They’re the heart of our support system.

These questions can guide you in understanding who brings what to your life and how to nurture each type of connection.

1. Who are the people I can count on during life’s biggest ups and downs, and what makes those relationships so steady? This helps you identify the “roots” in your life—those core connections that provide stability and resilience.

2. Which relationships bring fun, new perspectives, or energy into my life, even if they aren’t always consistent? This can reveal your “leaves,” who bring lightness and variety but might only be there for a season.

3. Who pushes me to grow or supports my goals, even if we’re not close in every way? This question helps you think about your “branches,” who support your growth and help you stretch further.

4. Are there any relationships that have changed recently, and how do I feel about the roles they play now? Reflecting here can help you see how certain connections have shifted, allowing you to redefine where they fit in your life.

5. How balanced do I feel with my relationships—do I have a mix of connections that meet different needs? This question encourages you to think about the variety of relationships in your life and whether you feel fulfilled in different ways. 

Together, all these relationships—the leaves, branches, and roots—help make our lives rich and balanced. We need the fun, seasonal connections just as much as we need the steadfast support of our roots. Each one plays a role in helping us grow, stand tall, and keep going. So nurture them all, appreciate their roles, and remember they each bring something special to your tree!

Ready to learn more? Be sure to grab your Six Small Shifts Checklist to help you get started on your wellness journey.

Wishing you peace, strength and love,  

Maryann