LIVE THE LIFE YOU LOVE

Iremember my grade school years sitting in class afraid to raise my hand. I didn’t want to look stupid.

As I got older my fear of asking for help seemed to grow bigger. I didn’t want to burden anyone or appear needy.

Why do we equate asking for help with weakness and helplessness?

Because some of us have been brought up to think if we ask for help we’re not good enough or somehow lost control of the situation.

Society tells us to be confident, independent and strong. So, we try to do everything on our own.

But if you think about it, you’ll realize that reaching out to others reflects strength of character and self-confidence. Cesar Chavez, founder of the National Farm Workers Association in 1962, said, “You are never strong enough that you don’t need help.”

Asking for support is a life skill that requires practice. It’s the skill that can make you a better person, a stronger leader and eventually achieve your dreams.

In order to live up to our fullest potential, I found three simple reasons we all need to ask for help.

Build relationships

As human beings we love to share experiences. We are social beings. An African proverb says, “It takes a village to raise a child.” This is true if we want the best possible outcome for that child. You can use the same concept with other words like “company” or “project,” and it would still hold the same meaning and value.

The truth is we become more powerful and effective when we work together. No one is perfect. By leaning on one another’s strong suits, we bring out the best in each other. It also builds trust and a sense of not letting each other down.

Breaking down walls

Scary as it may be, realizing that we are vulnerable and imperfect can take us further in life than by thinking we can do it all on our own. Life is all about learning and growing and realizing that you’re not alone in doing so. Asking for help will break down boundaries and enhance relationships. It will also help you feel less afraid and lonely. When you let people in bit by bit, eventually you’ll realize that you have people who support you and that you’ll do the same for them.

Giving happiness

I believe everyone enjoys helping others. It feels good and makes the brain release hefty doses of the feel-good hormone oxytocin. It boosts the mood and counteracts effects of the stress hormone cortisol.

By asking for support from others, you give them a chance to shine. Who doesn’t love sharing their passions and strengths?

At the end of the day, you have to make the decision to better yourself and your life. It’s empowering to reach out to others and seek help and support. And you’ll know that when the time comes, you’ll be able to pay it forward.

As Albert Schweitzer once said, “The purpose of human life is to serve, and to show compassion and the will to help others.”

Next month: Accepting Who You Really Are.

Have a topic for my column? Email maryjobriggsaustin@gmail.com .