The other day, I was having a conversation with one of my best friends about mental health. We talked about how, even with all the awareness today, people—especially men—still struggle to open up about their feelings. There’s this unspoken expectation to “be strong” or “just deal with it,” and as a result, so many people are carrying heavy burdens in silence.
That’s when she told me about something she had recently come across from Simon Sinek—the idea of sending a simple text that says:
“Do you have eight minutes?”
That really struck a chord with me. Think about it. Eight minutes. It’s not a huge commitment, but it’s enough time to check in, to let someone know they’re not alone, to create space for an honest conversation.
The truth is, we never really know what someone else is going through. Life moves fast, and people get good at hiding their struggles. Your strong friend, the one who always seems to have it all together? They might be barely holding on. That person you haven’t talked to in months? They might be waiting for someone—anyone—to reach out.
What if we started a movement where reaching out was this easy? A simple text: “Do you have eight minutes?” No pressure. No expectation. Just an open door for connection.
So, I’m challenging myself—and all of you—to start doing this. Think of someone you haven’t checked in with for a while. A friend, a family member, an old coworker. Send them that message. Give them eight minutes of your time. Because sometimes, eight minutes is all it takes to remind someone they’re not alone.
And if you’re the one struggling right now, know this: You are not alone. There are people who care about you. If you feel like you don’t have anyone to talk to, there are organizations that can help, like NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness). They offer support and resources for anyone who needs help navigating their mental health. You can reach out to them at www.nami.org or call their helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).
Eight minutes might just change everything. Let’s make this a thing. Let’s make it normal to check in, to care, to talk.
Love you, mean it.
Xox, Kimberly Dawn