Showing Up Well
This week has been full of inspiration—watching women shine at the Olympics and witnessing families and friends show up for athletes in incredible ways. That theme of showing up carried into my own life as I watched my son compete at his championship swim meet last weekend. The event held every emotion—joy, anxiety, pride, and hope. He swam beautifully, hit a season-best time, and stood on the podium. But what struck me most wasn’t the result—it was the realization that he didn’t need the perfect words from me. He just needed my presence.
That insight led me to reflect on what showing up really means. So often we hesitate because we’re afraid of saying the wrong thing or not knowing what to do. But showing up doesn’t require perfection, advice, or answers. It simply requires presence.
Research backs this up: people don’t usually want solutions—they want to feel seen, heard, and supported. Showing up can be as small as a text that says “thinking of you,” a call, an email, or even a funny meme. Those small gestures matter more than we realize.
And just as important, showing up for others begins with showing up for ourselves. How we speak to ourselves—our self-talk, compassion, and honesty—sets the tone for how we show up in relationships. When we offer ourselves kindness and empathy, we’re far more able to extend it outward.
This week’s well•ish experiment is simple but powerful:
How are you showing up for yourself?
How are you showing up for the people you love?
And is that aligned with how you want it to be?
Joy often grows when we reach out, connect, and let someone know they’re not alone. Sometimes the greatest gift we can give is simply saying, I’m here.
Show up imperfectly. Show up honestly. Show up.
Stay well•ish
Dani
