How to Build a Support Network That Lifts You Up

We are not meant to do this alone.

For a long time, I tried.

When I had my first baby during the pandemic, I felt the absence of support deeply. The world was shut down, we had no grandparents nearby to lend a hand, and I quickly learned just how isolating motherhood could be.

It was also during that time that I realised I suffered from anxiety - something I hadn’t recognised before becoming a mother. Trying to manage everything alone only made it harder.

Then, when I returned to work between my first and second son, I found myself juggling everything - work, motherhood, life - but without enough of a real support system in place. It was overwhelming.

So when I had my second baby (this time, thankfully, not in a pandemic), I did things differently. Without grandparents nearby to lean on, my husband and I intentionally created our own support structure. We learned to actively communicate about the support we needed from each other and put routines in place so we both had space for work, rest, and personal growth.

💡 It’s not perfect, but it makes a huge difference.

I also made a conscious decision to build the support I needed outside of family. Today, I have:

✔ A coach I meet with every two weeks

✔ A therapist I see regularly to help me manage anxiety

✔ A small but powerful network of people who lift me up

And I cannot imagine doing this without them.

Because here’s the truth: We are not meant to do this alone.

Motherhood, business, life - it’s a lot. Trying to carry it all on your own will only leave you exhausted, overwhelmed, and disconnected.

If you’re craving more support, here’s how to start building a network that lifts you up:

1. Notice who truly supports you

Not all relationships feel like support. Some people lift us up, while others drain us. Pay attention to the people who make you feel lighter, stronger, and more understood.

Ask yourself:

• Who do I feel safe around?

• Who listens without judgment?

• Who genuinely encourages me?

Start there. Those are your people.

2. Actively build the support you need

Support often needs to be actively created. Without family nearby, my husband and I had open conversations about our needs - practical things, emotional needs, and everything in between. We built routines that made room for work, rest, and personal space.

For me, building support also meant investing in myself through coaching and therapy - because my personal growth (and wellbeing) matters, too.

What might it look like for you?

• Joining a community or a network of mothers

• Hiring help (childcare, home, or business support)

• Regularly connecting with a friend who truly gets it

Small changes here make a huge difference.

3. Allow yourself to receive support

This is so important. Letting others support you can feel uncomfortable at first, especially if you’re used to managing everything yourself.

But support isn’t something you earn - it’s something you deserve. Let others in. Accept help.

💡 You don’t have to figure it all out alone - you deserve a support network that truly lifts you up.

So, I invite you to take one small step - reach out, ask for support, or let someone in. Even if it feels vulnerable at first, remember that we’re stronger together.

And if you feel like sharing, I’d love to hear - who is part of your support system, and what makes them special to you?