Whoβs your hype man? Of course it doesnβt have to be a man, it could be a woman, a spirit, an animal, or other being. But the concept remains. We need someone in our corner. Someone who is there through it all.Β
When I was five it was my blanket and my 9 stuffed animals. They were small and could all be wrapped in my blanket for easy transport. Whether I was going to a new, unfamiliar place or needing support before a big moment, they were there encouraging me and only seeing the best for me. Having trouble relating? Stay with me.
So I recently lost someone. I lost my hype man. The person that always sang my praises, that looked at me and told me the world was my oyster, the person that always saw my potential. Damn I miss them.Β
When I had my hype man, I tried my best not to take him for granted. I thanked him, I tried to be present, I did my best to return such admiration. But really, I didnβt appreciate my hype man 100%, until he was gone.
The hype man had a way of drowning other things out. Of giving me wings in times of difficulty and pushing me forward. When I lost him, I felt like I moved backwards. The stalwart way was lost.Β
I was forced to find a new way forward without that particular hype man. I ache for other outlets now. Ways to be heard, seen, and admired. So, if youβve lost your hype man, the only direction and solace I can offer is this:
1) Create something (cooking, painting, make a book club, blog, vlog)
2) Help others (even when they can be a pain in the butt)
3) Go out and talk to strangers. I find that I am more honest and open with people that donβt know my backstory and I donβt care as much how they judge me. Maybe you will find new aspects of yourself.
4) Find a loving self practice (yoga, meditation, walks, karaoke, journaling)Β Β Β
These things have NOT replaced my hype man. But they are helping. They are helping me form my new script about who I am, what I need in my life, and where Iβm going.