By Vaishnavi Kumar

Anything is possible when you have the right people there to support you

– Misty Copeland

Asking for support in the past has been generally seen as a sign of people who are weak, dependent, and uncertain about what to do. It is assumed that they aren’t smart or brave enough to get things done. People are told to be independent, strong, and firm with the decisions they make from the beginning. Most of them misinterpret this advice as to not seek support and to accomplish everything on their own. 

In reality, that’s not the case. Seeking support or help when you need it should have no shame attached to it. It gives a sense of confidence to the person seeking it. The person providing it feels better that they could help. People don’t become a burden when they ask for help. Everybody needs help, guidance and more at a point in their life and it’s absolutely fine to ask for it. Instead of struggling alone, reach out to someone and share your problems. 

Important reasons to ask for support:

The first reason is that you don’t have to go through everything alone. Having friends and family isn’t just for the sake of enjoying. Reach out to them, be open with the fact that you need support and you’ll instantly feel much better. Your bond with the person also tends to become stronger when you show your confidence in them. 

Secondly, when you approach someone for help, you allow the other person to showcase their abilities and talents. Everyone is different and has a unique way of tackling problems. You learn about the various ways in which a particular thing can be solved and the other person gets to hone their skills as well.

Thirdly, it improves your social skills. Seeking support is one of the hardest things that people can do. If you do develop this skill and have no regrets or hesitation while asking for support, you have taken your social skills further.

Lastly, when you ask for support, you are breaking the stereotype and encouraging more people to seek help when they need it. You are making a statement that it is okay to be flawed. We are there for each other to make things easier and better. 

Things to remember while seeking support –

  • Always be polite – You are the one in need of support, so be kind and gentle.
  • Be frank – Don’t go beating around the bush. Have confidence and get to the point.
  • Ask for it only when in need – Don’t be lazy and rely on others for minute problems as well. Seek support only when you need it. 
  • Be truthful- Never lie about a situation when seeking help. Let the other person know the entire story. 
  • Don’t force – Let people decide whether they want to provide support. Don’t pressurise them to do so. 

We hope after reading this, you will be a little less hesitant and more open to asking when you need it.

For more on this topic see here

See this post on asking for support when getting back on track from work related burn out.