Dec 09, 2024

Be the Person You Once Needed

I’ve been thinking a lot about the people who show up when we need them most—the ones who somehow become what we didn’t even realize we needed at the time. You know, the teacher who stayed patient when we struggled to understand, the friend who listened when words didn’t come, or the mentor who believed in us when we doubted ourselves. Their impact stays with us, doesn’t it? And it makes me wonder: what if we all tried to do the same for someone else?

Gratitude starts here. One of the simplest things I do is write down five things I’m grateful for. Most of the time, it’s the people in my life who top that list. It’s incredible how much clarity you gain when you reflect on the ways others have shown up for you. Gratitude isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a reminder of the power of those small, meaningful connections.

Paying It Forward in Everyday Life

When I think about the times I needed someone most, I remember those who stepped up without hesitation. They didn’t wear capes or perform miracles—they just showed up, and that was everything.

Now, I try to hold onto those moments when I’m the one who can make a difference. I want to be that person for someone else. It doesn’t take much, but it does take intention.

Something that’s helped me stay grounded in this is starting a gratitude journal. I write about the people I’m thankful for and how their kindness has shaped me. The practice reminds me that I can create those moments for others too.

The Quiet Power of Gratitude

Have you ever stopped to think about the benefits of writing down what you’re grateful for? For me, it’s not just about keeping a list but revisiting those names and faces that come to mind. Gratitude shifts something inside you. It’s like a quiet nudge to show up better for the people around you.

I’ve also asked myself questions like, “How do you develop a grateful attitude?” It’s in the little things, honestly. Like pausing to thank a mentor or leaving a thoughtful message for a friend who’s been there for you. Gratitude doesn’t need to be elaborate—it just needs to be real.

Small Steps That Matter

If I could go back in time and give myself advice, I’d tell myself to be the person I once needed. Be the senior who guides patiently. Be the teacher who explains one more time. Be the friend who shows up without needing to be asked.

It’s funny how the small stuff matters more than we think. Take a moment today to write down five things you’re grateful for. Reflect on the people who shaped you. Then think about one small way you can return the favor. Maybe it’s mentoring someone at work, calling a friend who needs support, or just being there for someone who feels invisible.

Related: The Guided Gratitude Journal

We all have the chance to make someone’s life a little better, just like others have done for us. You don’t need to have all the answers or be perfect. You just need to show up. The people who became what I needed when I needed them most taught me that. And I hope to do the same for someone else.

Take a moment today to think about the people who’ve shaped your story. Write it down. Remember their kindness. Then ask yourself: What will you do to make someone else feel the same way?