Everyone needs support, yet many people walk through life carrying more than their emotional capacity allows. Some become the strong ones at home but collapse under pressure at work because they have no colleagues they trust. Others excel in their professional networks but isolate themselves in their personal lives, leaning heavily on their spouse for every emotional need. These imbalances create strain.
Healthy relational leadership requires a balanced, layered support system. It means having people who can listen, people who can advise, people who can share responsibilities, and people who remind you to rest. No single person should carry the weight of all your needs. That is too much for any relationship.
Taking stock begins with this simple question: Who supports me and in what ways? You may notice that your support is scattered. You may realise that some relationships need strengthening. You may see that you are trying to do too much alone.
Support is not always emotional. Sometimes it is practical help. Sometimes it is accountability. Sometimes it is a colleague who lightens your workload. Sometimes it is a friend who gives perspective. Sometimes it is a partner who steps in on a busy day. When support is balanced, your emotional world becomes lighter.
Relational leadership also requires offering support, not just receiving it. Who depends on you? Are you available in the way you expect others to be available to you? Strengthening support systems means having mutual, consistent relationships where help flows both ways.
Action steps for 2026:
• Strengthen one weak support relationship.
• Delegate or share one responsibility you currently carry alone.