Jess & Michelle: thanks for this excellent post. Three remarks I’d like to add:
1. We all need support, but individuals vary considerably in the kind of support they need in order to flourish. A kind of support that works well for one person might feel patronising, frustrating or stifling to another, or cold, distant and uncaring to a third. To be effectively supportive, we must be sensitive to individual needs.
2. Being supportive is difficult, so individuals in the community should help others support them. If the support you’re getting from the community is suboptimal, it’s unlikely that other individuals are entirely to blame.
3. As a community, we should create an atmosphere where it’s easy for people to ask for more or different kinds of support when they need to. Admitting vulnerability and requesting support is a sign of strength and maturity, not weakness, so we should praise, encourage and reward those who do this.
Jess & Michelle: thanks for this excellent post. Three remarks I’d like to add:
1. We all need support, but individuals vary considerably in the kind of support they need in order to flourish. A kind of support that works well for one person might feel patronising, frustrating or stifling to another, or cold, distant and uncaring to a third. To be effectively supportive, we must be sensitive to individual needs.
2. Being supportive is difficult, so individuals in the community should help others support them. If the support you’re getting from the community is suboptimal, it’s unlikely that other individuals are entirely to blame.
3. As a community, we should create an atmosphere where it’s easy for people to ask for more or different kinds of support when they need to. Admitting vulnerability and requesting support is a sign of strength and maturity, not weakness, so we should praise, encourage and reward those who do this.
Thanks Peter, great points!