Beyond seat fillers

identifying authentic cheerleaders in your front row of life

Whether you listen to the VoiceOver for accessibility, because you’re more of an auditory learner or so you can grab some movement while we’re together—it will consistently be an option.

Photo by Jonas Jacobsson on Unsplash

I ponder the visual of who’s in my front row fairly frequently.

For years it was a static bunch (mom, dad, sisters, husband, child, done). A reliable group of those whom I knew had my back no matter what and, while I could have moooooved everyone down to make room for friends/professional peers, I didn’t feel the need to.

And life shifted.

And, as I said to my then 11 year old daughter, as a tween you may think you’d DIE without your front row—as a 48 year old newly separated woman you really just might,

OK, so what *is* the front row?

The front row is a metaphor for our closest, most impactful supporters. Those who will arrive to an event early (there’s that effort!) so they can secure the front row of the audience (I support you *and* you can see/feel my supportive presence!) and to whom you know you can look whether you’re kicking ass (they applaud!) or faltering (they can convey they’ve ‘got you’ with a glance).

The humans who came to mind as you read the above?

They’re your FRP.

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Whether two or twenty, the front row is made of people who have a direct and immediate impact on our journey.

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Identifying our Front Row People forces us to pause and reflect on those who consistently show up, who inspire and uplift, and who play a positive role in our lives—even when said positivity may mean they are the bearer of candid, constructive criticism.

Our FRP are a big facet of what helps us remain consistent in life through the framework they create with their unflagging support.

3 Strategies for identifying FRP:

👉 Observe Actions Over Words:

Actions often speak louder than words, and when identifying our front row humans, it's essential to pay attention to what they do. Genuine supporters consistently demonstrate their commitment and encouragement through tangible actions. They celebrate our successes—never once fearing our success equates to their failure. They offer help and support during tough times and actively engage alongside us in our pursuits.

It's also important to be mindful of consistent *subtle* gestures that convey support. A friend who always remembers important dates, a work colleague who acknowledges accomplishments even when we might let them pass by—these are all signs of individuals who value and support you in your endeavors.

FRP!

👉 Listen for Constructive Criticism:

Our front row will not only celebrate victories but provide constructive feedback when required. They are as committed as we are to our growth/improvement and their guidance consistently comes from a place of care and support.

Consider the feedback you receive from people in your life: are they offering suggestions for improvement in an encouraging fashion?

Our FRP aim to help us become the best version of ourselves and their feedback—even when it may not be what we want to hear!—reflects this intention. They focus on our strengths even when gently pointing out areas for growth or improvement.

Additionally, observe how these humans react to setbacks. True FRP will empathize with struggles and offer encouragement/assistance to overcome challenges. Their positivity is a beacon of light during challenging times not the unanchored toxic positivity of those who aren’t r e a l l y invested.

👉 Look for Reciprocity:

I’m a big believer in doing acts of kindness without expectations and certainly without expecting it to return to me from the same source.

Around here we ‘do unto others’ entirely because it contributes to creating positive energy in the world. It’s why I do the work I do.

Reciprocity with our FRP is a little different.

You know you’ve properly identified a front row human when you have a sense of mutual support. Not necessarily happening at the same time —or even in the same year!—FRP reflexively reciprocate support because they value our goals/aspirations as much as they do their own.

FRP also reciprocate vulnerabilities, trust us as we trust them, and create a bubble (shout out to you old timey readers!) where we can truly show up as our messy selves.

Presenting and tapping into the energy of my FRP

Here’s the thing:

Unlike many personal development exercises identifying our Front Row People is not a luxury, but a necessity.

These are our People.

These are the humans who start the ovation when we succeed and the first to show up when we are experiencing an….intermission of life-struggle.

When we recognize and nurture these authentic supporters, we not only create a powerful network but also ensure that our life's performance is met with genuine applause.

Now you.

I cannot encourage you enough to prioritize making a list of your FRP and taking a moment to acknowledge and thank them.

As a secondary exercise to this—I will join you in pausing to list the humans who include *us* in their front row and making it a priority to consistently show up.

Already know your FRP? Send them this post and remind them they’re appreciated: