The Power of Showing Up

What Does It Mean to Show Up for Others?

Showing up for others can take many forms, but at its core, it’s about being present. It’s about actively participating in someone’s life and showing them they matter. Sometimes, it’s as simple as holding the door open with a smile for a stranger. Other times, it’s sitting in silence with someone as they process grief.

The impact of these acts, whether small or monumental, creates a ripple effect that truly makes us — and the world — a better place. When you show up for someone, you make them feel seen, valued, and cared for.

My First Workshop: A Lesson in Showing Up

This week, I held my first workshop. As an icebreaker, I asked a poll question about why the participants had signed up. Among the list of options about their interest in the topic, I included: “I’m here to support Rebecca.” It got a laugh because I knew, deep down, that this was true for nearly everyone there.

They weren’t there because they were dying to learn about the power of reflection. They showed up to support me — to cheer me on in my journey of starting a business. They gave me the opportunity to practice my skills, figure out what worked (and what didn’t), and offer their feedback. They showed their love through their presence.

The Ripple Effect of Showing Up

Not only did they show up for me, but they also participated. Their engagement helped calm my nerves, which were already high, and made worse by a last-minute issue with the workshop link.

In the end, their feedback was positive, and many had even completed their workbook. I realized that I had shown up for them, too. I didn’t slack on preparation or materials just because most participants were people I knew. They showed up for me, and I wanted to return the favor by giving them value.

Why Showing Up Is Good for You, Too

We all win when we show up for others. Not only do they feel valued, but we also gain a sense of purpose.

Science backs this up: when we help others, our brains release serotonin (the “feel-good” chemical), dopamine (the “motivation” booster), and oxytocin (the “connection” hormone). These chemicals improve our mental and emotional health, boosting happiness, self-esteem, and relationships.

Letting Others Show Up for You

For a long time, I struggled to ask for help — not because I didn’t need it, but because I didn’t want to inconvenience anyone. I also didn’t want to be seen. I told myself that if I struggled quietly in the corner, no one would notice. (Spoiler: not true. I probably just came across as stubborn or even a little haughty, like I was too good to ask for help.)

Looking back, I see how much of a disservice I did — to others and to myself.

A Family Lesson: The Impact of Showing Up

This lesson became even clearer recently as I watched the dynamic between my children and my husband. Sometimes, I see them hesitate to interrupt him to ask for help. And I see his hurt feelings when they don’t give him the opportunity to show up for them.

Because I work from home most days, I’m more accessible. My husband doesn’t have that luxury, so his opportunities to connect with them are more limited. But when he does get to show up for them, even in the smallest ways, I see how it strengthens their bond. It’s a reminder that letting others show up for us is a gift, too.

Showing Grace for How People Show Up

I’ve also learned another important lesson: grace.

Grace for how people show up.

Our personalities, experiences, and approaches to life vary widely. The way someone shows up for you might look completely different than what you expect. My husband, for example, has likely never read one of my blogs or looked at my social media. He even flat-out refused to share one of my posts, which — if I’m honest — really hurt my feelings.

But here’s the thing: self-development isn’t in his world. He doesn’t really understand what a life coach does or why someone would work with one. He doesn’t even do social media. But he does show up — in his way.

He supported me when I decided to go back to school, even though it meant a significant financial investment at a less-than-ideal time. He helped adjust our family routine to give me the time I needed to study. Now, as I focus on continuing my education and building this business, he’s learning the technology to help me succeed.

When the workshop link issue came up, I panicked. He told me to breathe and reassured me that it would be okay. Then, without fanfare, he figured out the problem, fixed it, and made sure the kids were fed and occupied while I ran the workshop. He was right — it was okay.

That’s how he shows up. And I’m learning to recognize and appreciate his version of support, even if it doesn’t look like mine.

A Reminder to Show Up

When we show up for others — and let others show up for us — it strengthens our connections and makes life better for everyone. Showing up is a simple but powerful act of love, grace, and community. It makes people feel seen and valued, and in the process, it fills us with purpose and joy.

So, here’s your reminder: don’t hesitate to show up for someone this week. And don’t be afraid to let someone show up for you.