When Others Don’t Reciprocate Your Support

Feeling Unsupported? You’re Not Alone

Imagine pouring your energy into supporting others but not getting much in return. That’s NOT a good feeling.

Not getting support can make you question yourself, your efforts, and your actions. So, let’s lean into that feeling, find clarity, and flip something positive from the situation.

First off — know this:

Feeling unsupported is more common than you think, especially as a dream chaser, budding creator, or rising entrepreneur.

And sometimes, it’s not about you—it’s about where people’s attention is focused.

That means people aren’t necessarily trying to ignore you —— instead, they could be very focused on other things.

A Trap: Focusing on Critics Over Supporters

So, here’s some uncommon wisdom for anyone feeling unsupported…don’t make the mistake of prioritizing critics over supporters.

Because some people mess up by focusing on critics more than supporters.

But how do you know when it’s happening to you? Or someone you know?

I’ve got you covered.

Here are seven clear signs someone is focusing more on their critics than their supporters.

Clear Signs Your Critics Matter Too Much

You’re often overwhelmed by negative feedback + dwell on it.

You mention your mistakes or failures a lot.

You get discouraged or lose motivation easily.

You hesitate to share your successes.

You minimize, downplay, or ignore positive comments.

You want validation from your critics.

You try to prove your critics wrong.

If you find yourself (or someone else) doing these things, maybe y’all are focusing on your critics too much.

Moving Forward Without Their Support

So, what can you do when you feel unsupported?

Here are some ways to shift your focus and keep moving forward…

1️⃣ Prioritize positive feedback.
2️⃣ Mention wins more than mistakes.
3️⃣ Don’t let your feelings steal the show.
4️⃣ Share your successes with confidence.
5️⃣ Acknowledge positive comments and feedback.
6️⃣ Prioritize interactions with your supporters.
7️⃣ Ignore the desire to prove people wrong.

Keep Supporting Others

When you give support, you get support!

So, keep supporting others and watch support flow back to you!

Even if a specific person doesn’t reciprocate your support, someone else will.

Your support for others won’t go unnoticed.

The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. (Proverbs 11:25 NLT)

👋🏽 Hi, I’m LOLA ⸻ the creator of offbeat life advice brand, The Smoking Prophet, owner of a growing content agency, and cultivator of life (family first)!

Most days, you can find me at my desk, in my garden, or on the go. My super-social family keeps me on my toes!

Follow The Smoking Prophet to ignite your creativity, grow spiritually, and blaze your own trail online!

💌 lola@thesmokingprophet.com