It’s Time to Examine Your Life Board

Have you ever looked around and realized that you have people in your life, but you’re still missing the support you need? You can have hundreds of friends on social media, a large family, and people you interact with daily, yet still feel like you’re doing life alone.

I’ve learned that having people around you is not the same as having the right people around you.

As my mentor and coach, Dr. Dharius Daniels, often says, “You cannot be your best self by yourself.” Not one lie told!

Over the past year, I’ve focused a lot on imposter syndrome and believing in yourself. But I’ve come to realize that building confidence is only part of the equation. The other part is building community.

1. Everybody Doesn’t Deserve Access to You

Just because someone is familiar doesn’t mean they are safe. I’ve learned that trust has to be earned, and each interaction should be a deposit toward trust, not a withdrawal.

Before giving someone access to your life, ask yourself: Do they respect my boundaries? Do they take accountability? Do they offer grace and safety?

2. Stop Trying to Do Everything Alone

Oftentimes, I have found myself and other high-achieving individuals trying to do everything alone.

A good mentor can save you three valuable commodities: time, money, and energy.

I don’t want to have to bump my head or burn my hand to learn a lesson when someone who has already traveled that road can offer wisdom.

Sometimes the missing piece isn’t another strategy. It’s the right person.

3. Pay Attention to Their Fruit

The people on your Life Board should support your growth, not keep you in a stunted state.

Do they celebrate your successes, or do they minimize your accomplishments with remarks like “Your little ________”?

Pay attention to people’s actions, not just their potential.

4. Every Seat Serves a Different Purpose

My Life Board journal identifies seven essential relational roles: Peer, Mentor, Cheerleader, Accountability Partner, Values Twin, Wellness Partner, and Leisure Companion.

Each person serves a different purpose in supporting your growth, identity, and well-being.

When I examined my own Life Board, I realized there were gaps. But instead of being disheartened, I became reassured because I finally had a framework to be intentional about building my community.