318 Chapter 12 Health and Fitness Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. As you can see, it is important to surround yourself with people who will support you in a positive manner. Some young people feel they are lacking such a support group. If you feel this way, try to connect with some caring adults. Remember that adults other than parents can help you. An older sibling, a grandparent, a favorite teacher, a religious leader, a neighbor, or your employer are all possible candidates. Close friends should also be an important part of your support group. Reading Review 1. List three factors that can contribute to a quality life and give an example of each. 2. Identify three roadblocks to personal development. 3. Give an example of a positive risk and an example of a risk that can have negative consequences. Explain your answers. 4. Give three characteristics of a supportive relationship. Life Skills How to Develop a Social Support Network Because supportive family, friends, and coworkers are such an important part of your life, it’s never too soon to cultivate these important relationships. A social support network is different than a support group, which exists to help a group of people with the same problem cope with it. You can create your own social support network any way you choose. A good place to start is by thinking about the activities you enjoy and values that are most important to you. For instance, if you love to ski, take the local weekend ski bus to your nearest ski area, start a ski club at school, or join a competitive ski team. If your spiritual life is a priority, join or start a youth group based on your faith. You will meet other people who enjoy the same things you do, which is a great basis for building and maintaining an ongoing, supportive network of friends. Some other ideas of groups to join—or start, if there are none in your community—can include • a book club or creative writing group • a hiking, kayaking, basketball (or other sport) group/team • a movie or video group • a group based on a hobby, such as building model planes or making quilts • a rotating cooking or dinner group • a science or inventor’s club