Showing Up When It Matters Most
Some of the most meaningful gifts from my circle of support have been when someone simply showed up. I’ll never forget the kindness I received after my twins were born, when friends and neighbors dropped off meals during my maternity leave. At a time when I was exhausted and learning how to care for two newborns, those thoughtful actions to lighten my load meant the world. No one asked, “Let me know if there’s anything I can do.” They simply took action.
Every year, a few close friends message me on the anniversary of my mom’s passing and those words of comfort mean more than they probably realize. It’s never about saying the perfect thing but rather about knowing they remembered and thought to reach out.
Recently, a few of us went out for brunch to celebrate my friend Cheryl starting a new job. It wasn’t a big production, just delicious crepes at our favorite spot, laughter, and excitement for her next chapter. Yet that small gesture of gathering together not only celebrated her but also gave space to learn about other expanding roles and new adventures among the six friends.
Recognizing important moments doesn’t require grand gestures. Each of these experiences reminded me that the moments that matter most often come from small, thoughtful gestures.. It’s about intentionality, empathy, and presence. Sometimes it’s a message, a card, or a quick act of kindness that says, I see you, and I’m here.
These ideas matter because they help us notice both the joyful and the challenging moments that shape the people we care about. Here are ten simple ways to recognize the meaningful moments in the lives of people you care about:
Send a message, note, or card on an anniversary, whether it’s a joyful or difficult event such as a wedding, work anniversary, or the passing of a loved one.
Celebrate a new beginning, such as a new job, home, or major project milestone.
Offer practical help during hard times, like delivering a meal, helping watch the kids, or running errands.
Follow up after a big event to ask how it went and genuinely listen.
Recognize less obvious dates, such as medical screenings or results, anniversaries of a loss, or milestones like adopting a pet or running a race
Bring coffee or a small treat to someone who’s having a tough week or facing a big challenge.
Organize a brunch, walk, or dinner to celebrate a friend’s success or life update.
Send a photo or memory to a friend out of the blue that reminds you of a happy moment together.
Encourage someone before an important day like a presentation, interview, or first day back after time away.
Offer encouragement when life feels ordinary, reminding someone that their daily efforts matter.
As we pause to acknowledge these meaningful moments, consider reaching out to someone in your life with a brief message, a thoughtful note, or a small act of kindness today. By honoring the important moments in others’ lives, we foster stronger connections and build deeper trust. It’s one of the simplest ways to nurture relationships and reflects the “R” in the CARE framework from the Resilience for Progress workbook.
This post is part of the ongoing series inspired by The Four Facets of Better Living: Physical wellness, Personal relationships, Professional purpose, and Prosperity habits. Each helps create greater balance and resilience in everyday life. If you’d like to learn more or be part of the next Resilience for Progress retreat, visit the Contact Form to express your interest.