Look For The Helpers

Growing up surrounded by chaos taught me one thing with astounding clarity. The people who jump in when the shit hits the fan are the people you want on your team. You need stability in your inner circle to maintain your sanity. The friends who stand by your side, rising to every occasion, are as crucial as oxygen for your survival. Accepting help has always been a struggle for me, so burnout can set in quickly if I'm not careful. My lifeblood is the friends who show up and meet the needs I've never even vocalized. Mindy Kaling says, "Best friend isn't a person; it's a tier." Ever since I heard that, I've thought of friendship as a multi-tiered thing. I envision it as a Gatsby-Esque champagne tower. I try to pour the highest quality bubbly into them. They deserve the good stuff as much as I do.

Who are the people in your life who inspire you? The people who don't let you quit? Who do you want right there beside you if you're crying on your bathroom floor? If your car breaks down, who comes to get you? Those are your top-tier people. Who you surround yourself with is crucial because it sets you up for success in all areas of your life. The people you spend the majority of your time with are the ones who will teach you the most. They are the ones who you will become most like. Choosing people that bring out the best in you is the most important thing you can do for yourself.

If you are still building your top tier, think of it this way. They should be your most reliable friends. The people who always come through for you in the clutch. You will collect a lot of people in your life. The ones who show up time after time will rise to the top. Once you have them identified, pour your heart into those folks first. Almost all your other relationships will change from time to time. The top tier is there for the long haul. Cherish them. Invest in them as much as you would your health. In all honesty, they are crucial to your long-term wellness.

When life tears you down, they are the ones that will be building you back up. Build them up every chance you get. Treasure them like gold. 

Look at yourself when you are with them.

You shine brighter when they are around.

Look at them. 

You might realize they are everything you ever needed.

Look out for them. 

They need you as much as you need them.

Look up to them. 

They will teach you all the best lessons.

Look for the helpers. 

They are always there.