Just How Important Is Your Support System?

A Q&A with life coach Darcy Luoma.

Pursuing a dream takes hard work, discipline, countless hours and a healthy dose of passion — and it’s not always smooth sailing. That’s why having a support network you can rely on when the going gets tough is truly essential.

We spoke with Darcy Luoma, life coach, motivational speaker and founder of Darcy Luoma Coaching & Consulting LLC (Opens in a new tab) to get a professional dreamer’s take on just how important it is to have people in your life who’ve got your back, and how you can build up your support system. Here’s what she had to say.

Q: As a life coach, you see people going after their dreams on a regular basis. How important would you say their support system is when it comes to their success along this journey?

A: Very! It’s important when obstacles arise and roadblocks show up, as they inevitably will. It is so helpful to have a champion, someone who knows what your goals are and what you’re trying to accomplish, that can help you get out of your own way.

Q: As a truly inspirational dreamer yourself, you’ve accomplished a lot. How important has your own support system been in achieving your goals?

A: My support system has been completely essential. I absolutely could not do what I do without them! It’s vitally important to search out and build up your support system like I have. There’s very little that I do without running the idea or decision by someone else — this helps me see my blind spots and view things more clearly rather than just from my own perspective.

Q: What kind of people would you say make up a good support system, and when do you know that a person in your life is maybe not the best supporter?

A: A good supporter is someone who believes in you fully, who has an abundance mentality and wants the best for you. Someone who understands your goals, dreams and values and doesn’t try to instill their own. On the other side, someone who isn’t a good supporter is anyone who is envious, doesn’t believe that you have the capacity to do what you want to do or limits you in any way.

Q: What advice do you have for people looking to build up their support networks?

A: There are so many ways to build your support system! You can hire a coach, reach out to a mentor or attend small group coaching. Now there are tons of online platforms as well, like Meetup.com (Opens in a new tab). (Opens in a new tab) Plus there are often local events where you can meet like-minded people. If you have a particular area of interest or growth, see if you can find a community and join it! It might be scary to engage like that, but it will be worth it.

So, no matter what dream you’re pursuing, be sure to surround yourself with people who root for you. You might be surprised at just how much your support system can help you in achieving your greatest goals — not to mention you deserve your own squad of cheerleaders!

Want more tips and motivation? Our collection of self-improvement tools and resources will help support and guide you along any dream pursuit.