Why You Should Be The Person You Needed

We’ve all had those moments where we felt completely alone, misunderstood, or like the world was just too heavy to carry. In those moments, what did you wish for? Maybe it was a friend who would just listen, a mentor who would give you some direction, or even just a stranger who would give you a break. Those memories are painful, but they are also a roadmap. They show you exactly what the world needs more of. They are your invitation to become the person you once needed so badly.

This is a powerful way to practice 'self-healing' through kindness. By giving to others what you didn't receive, you’re breaking the cycle of lack. You’re transforming your past struggles into a source of strength for someone else. In psychology, we call this 'post-traumatic growth.' It’s the idea that our hardest experiences can lead to a deeper sense of empathy and a stronger desire to help others. When you help someone through a situation you’ve already survived, you’re validating your own journey.

Being the person you needed doesn't have to be a grand gesture. It’s in the way you look out for the new person at work because you remember how scary your first day was. It’s in the way you check in on the 'strong friend' because you know what it’s like to hide your struggle behind a smile. It’s about being observant and using your own history as a guide to where more kindness is needed. You are uniquely qualified to help certain people because of what you’ve been through.

So, don't let your past make you bitter. Let it make you better. Use your experience to fuel your compassion. When you become a source of support for others, you’ll find that your own wounds start to heal in a new way. You’re not just a survivor; you’re a protector. You’re a leader. You’re the hero of your own story and someone else’s too. Keep showing up. The world is waiting for your specific brand of kindness.