Why Everyone Needs a Cheerleader: The Power of Support and Encouragement

There is consensus about the unbelievably powerful influence of having people in your life who cheer you on. Without their support, you may be too scared to accomplish your dreams.

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Ralph Waldo Emerson describes it as, “Our chief want in life is somebody who will make us do what we can”. Emerson was a successful person so you have to assume he knew what he was talking about. But he passed away a long time ago, in 1882 to be exact, and you can say that things have changed.
 
Denzel Washington who is very much alive and according to Wikipedia has been regarded as one of the best actors of his generation, is more specific, “Show me a successful individual and I’ll show you someone who had real positive influences in his or her life”. His quote brings in a new perspective changing the value of a cheerleader for success from a want to a necessity.

Why A Necessity

So why are cheerleaders, who can also be known as personal board members, mentors or coaches, so important?

• Cheerleaders bring a new perspective that you may not consider on your own.
• They have been through and can share experiences that you may be considering.
• Cheerleaders brainstorm with you as you select your life or career path.
• They support you if you are struggling to create or reach your goals.
• Cheerleaders help you overcome possible setbacks.
• They celebrate your accomplishments and achievements. 

So how do you go about finding your cheerleader?

Photo by Clark Tibbs on Unsplash

Finding Your Cheerleaders

​There are a few ways to find people who are willing to support you. In the words of a young 14-year-old, “there are many people who want to help you, all you have to do is ask”. Her experience has always been positive about looking around her and selecting people who can help her best. However, it is important to select those people depending on your personal needs. For example, she knows to reach out to her mom when needing assistance in creative writing. When reflecting on careers, she does not hesitate to reach out to professionals or role models via email. While some flat out ignore her emails and others respond that they are too busy, a generous number are willing to meet with her and answer her questions.

Where Are Your Cheerleaders

Here are a few ways that you can establish a system of supportive others to build your career path:

• Your parents can be your best mentors.
• Some teachers look forward to supporting students’ ideas – all you have to do is ask.
• Professionals whose career may be of interest to you.
• Non-profit organizations or local libraries that offer free mentoring.
• Career people (career counselors, career coaches, academic advisors...)

In Short

​There is an unbelievable power to having cheerleaders. With their support, you will be able to achieve your dreams. On your way to fulfilling your dreams, having one or more people as your board of cheerleaders makes your journey easier as you realize goals, overcome setbacks and celebrate accomplishments.
 
Do you already have a person who is there for you when you need help? If not, can you think of other ways to find your cheerleader? Please share your experience.
 
Now is the time to select the ideal members for your board. What are you waiting for?

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​I am Hoda Kilani, your Career and Academic Coach. I provide you with the latest strategies to innovatively craft your career journey your way.

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