It’s Okay to Ask for Help

A lot of times we think that asking for help is a sign of weakness. In fact, it shows that you are strong enough to be vulnerable to ask for help, even if people say no or are not available. Sometimes the notion of asking shows our humanity that we are in need of being connected with others. As humans, we are meant to live in fellowship with others and not in isolation.

In our current individualistic society, we hear the phrase self-made millionaire or tycoon where they became successful on their own. This is the biggest myth of success that society tells people. They continue by looking down on those who rely on others for help, income or support from the public and are seen as a burden. 

In fact, millionaires and successful people actually have a team that surrounds them. Most of all, self-made millionaires or billionaires had a lot of help: customers, investors, business partners, mentors, loans, advisors and tax breaks. Some people even had family and friends loan them money and support their dreams and goals. Without these people and things, they would not be where they are today.

I have learned the hard way that asking for help is healthy and makes you stronger. I have faced burnout and depressed moods due to feeling alone, overworked or taken for granted, assuming that people would automatically offer help, which they don’t.

I realize now that I move into consultant work and entrepreneurship, asking for help and opening up about my needs and plans creates a sense that I have plans and believe in my plans, even if others don’t. As I ask for support in my goals, it creates more belief in my plans. This also reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, which can cripple or paralyze my path and steps in achieving goals. These emotions and thoughts arise when you are doing things that are not fulfilling and connected to a purpose. 

There’s an African proverb, which says, “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” This quote epitomes success as it is a team effort. If you really want to be successful, remember to ask for help in accomplishing goals. Be brave enough to get feedback on goals from those you trust or admire. It takes strength to be vulnerable and to be open. Most of all, the strongest survive with the best team around them.