In recent weeks, I’ve experienced the uplifting power of support firsthand. Having recently relaunched my YouTube channel, STYLISA, the encouragement I’ve received from friends, family, and even unexpected sources has been nothing short of incredible. One moment, in particular, stood out and inspired me to write this: my good friend Marverine Cole, who runs her channel "Midlife With Marv," gave me a surprise shoutout in one of her videos. She said, "I've also got a friend on YouTube, Hi Lisa, STYLISA, go and check her out. STYLISA." Her words were a complete surprise and a timely reminder of the importance of championing each other’s endeavours.
It’s easy to underestimate how much these small acts of kindness mean, especially when you’re at the beginning of a new project. But they are vital, providing a foundation of confidence and reassurance to keep pushing forward. So, let’s dive into why supporting each other is not just nice to do but crucial for success—and how we can all make a difference.
Here is the clip of the kind mention from my very good friend Marverine...
Why Support Matters
Emotional Boost
Starting something new—whether it’s a YouTube channel, a business, or a creative project—is exciting but also daunting. You’re often venturing into uncharted territory, juggling self-doubt and high expectations. Knowing that someone has your back, even in a small way, can be incredibly reassuring. A shoutout, a comment, or a shared post can lift your spirits on a day when you’re questioning everything.
When Marverine gave me that unexpected shoutout, it was more than just a mention. It was a boost of validation that said, “I see you, and I believe in what you’re doing.” Those words can stay with you, giving you the confidence to keep going—especially on the tough days.
Building Momentum
Support creates a ripple effect. When someone vouches for you, it can open doors you didn’t even know existed. A shoutout can lead to new subscribers, connections, or opportunities. In a world where algorithms often dictate visibility, word of mouth remains a powerful force.
Marverine’s shoutout has already helped me gain new followers who may never have discovered my channel otherwise. That’s the beauty of community—one person’s action can spark a chain reaction of growth and opportunity.
A Sense of Belonging
At its core, support reminds us that we’re not alone. No matter how independent or self-sufficient we strive to be, we all thrive in connection. Having people who genuinely cheer for your success fosters a sense of belonging, and that’s a powerful motivator.
The Role of Small Gestures
You might think that only grand gestures count, but it’s often the smaller ones that make the biggest impact. Sharing someone’s work, leaving a kind comment, or simply telling them you’re proud of them can change their day—and their trajectory.
Sharing and Amplifying
In today’s digital world, one of the easiest ways to support someone is to amplify their work. Share their posts, subscribe to their channel, leave reviews, or recommend them to others. These small actions cost nothing but can mean everything.
Showing Up
Whether it’s attending a launch event, tuning into a live stream, or watching and engaging with someone’s content, showing up is a powerful way to demonstrate support. Your presence signals that you value their effort and believe in their mission.
Genuine Encouragement
Sometimes, the best support is as simple as a heartfelt conversation. A kind word or a bit of advice can remind someone why they started and encourage them to keep going. Marverine’s shoutout wasn’t just a mention—it was her way of saying, “I’m rooting for you.”
How to Foster a Culture of Support
Be Intentional
Supporting others doesn’t happen by accident. Make a conscious effort to notice when people in your circle are doing something new or challenging, and find ways to lift them up.
Celebrate Wins—Big and Small
We’re often conditioned to celebrate only the “big” milestones, but small victories deserve recognition too. Did a friend launch their first video? Write a blog post? Secure their first client? Celebrate with them! Every step forward is worth acknowledging.
Offer Your Expertise
If you have skills or knowledge that could help someone in your network, offer them. Sometimes, the best support isn’t financial but practical. Your advice or guidance might be exactly what they need to overcome a hurdle.
Create Opportunities
Think about ways to create opportunities for others. If you’re organising an event, include a friend who could benefit from the exposure. If you’re invited to speak on a panel, recommend someone else who’s equally deserving. Lifting others doesn’t dim your light—it makes it shine brighter.
Paying It Forward
Receiving support is a gift, but it’s also a responsibility. When someone shows up for you, it’s a reminder to pay that kindness forward. Whether it’s for the same person or someone else entirely, the best way to honour the support you’ve received is to extend it to others.
As I continue to grow my YouTube channel and other ventures, I’m committed to championing those around me. Marverine’s shoutout reminded me of the power of these seemingly small gestures, and it’s inspired me to do the same for others. Together, we can create a network of encouragement that uplifts everyone involved.
Final Thoughts
In a world that can often feel competitive and isolating, support is a radical act of kindness. It’s about recognising that success isn’t a zero-sum game—there’s room for everyone to thrive. By cheering each other on, we not only help our peers but also create a culture of collaboration and positivity.
So, here’s my challenge to you: think about someone in your life who could use a little encouragement today. Send them a message, share their work, or give them a shoutout. It might seem small, but to them, it could mean the world.
And to Marverine—thank you for your support. Your words reminded me that even in this vast online world, connections and kindness truly matter. Let’s all strive to do the same for each other.
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