The Power of Asking for Support

The ability to ask for support is fundamental, yet it doesn’t come naturally, or easily, to everyone.

If you find yourself feel this way, you wouldn’t be alone. Perhaps it’s because you believe that doing so makes you a burden to other people, or worse, that your request will be denied.

You may also consider the need to ask as a sign of weakness, rather than a positive indication that it’s time to let others step in and help you. Whatever the reason, the reality is that asking for help, or support, will ultimately help you move forward.

You’ve probably heard the age-old adage, ‘a problem shared is a problem halved.’ Friends and family play an active role in your life because they care about you and are generally far more willing to help than you may realise. It’s important to remember this when those negative self-doubts, such as being a burden to others, start to creep in.

The first step towards overcoming the fear and achieving success is to recognise that asking for help is actually a sign of strength and confidence.

When you ask for help, remember to tell yourself these things…

1. You are not alone.
2. Nothing can be solved until it is faced.
3. You aren’t burdening anyone with your request for support.
4. Your friends, family, and colleagues want to support you. It’s why they are in your life.

Everyone occasionally needs help. Those who are willing enough to offer support are often waiting for an opportunity to step in and make a difference. When you learn how to ask for this help, naturally, you provide others with the ability to give their support freely.

No matter what your struggles may be, if you feel you need extra assistance, know that there are people who want to help you.

If you want further support around your happiness and well-being, you can find tips in my book Ten Times Happier here.

Take care, look after yourself and I’ll speak to you soon.

Owen

P.S. My new book, How to Be Your Own Therapist, published by Harper Collins, is out on 23 June – check back for more information!