Are You Strong Enough to Ask for Help?

Recently, I was reminded that asking for help shows strength. We just got a new puppy! It was a spontaneous decision.

We already have a three-year-old dog and we were about to move across the country in two weeks. Now 9 weeks in, I can barely make it down the street with both dogs. There is a lot of ankle biting, barking, and general chaos on the sidewalk. I am not sure our new neighbors are eager to meet our family. So after much thought, we decided to engage the support of an expert trainer and walker as well as sign up for puppy kindergarten classes. Now, we are taking a few steps forward each day. Of course, there are plenty of ankle-biting moments still today and in our near future. Just this morning, I was exhausted after walking a few blocks. 

At first, I thought outsourcing and paying for help was a sign that I couldn’t do something I should be able to do myself. Maybe this was a sign of weakness or something was wrong with me. Of course, that’s not the case. After my first session with the professional dog trainer, I learned so much from her expertise and strong skill set. I needed and still have a guide by my side to be able to build my own skills and ultimately provide what these pups need. Asking for help is a decision of strength. It takes strength to acknowledge when you need support and when you can learn from someone.

I recently met with a leader who is just new to his journey. It was exciting to hear his thoughtful approach and to help him set and support grounded and meaningful priorities and goals. I am also energized when I meet with experienced leaders who are eager to keep growing their skills and understand they are on a continuous journey.

Asking for help is an act of strength. Thoughts to Consider…

  • Be aware of when you feel overwhelmed frequently in a specific area. 
  • Try not to judge yourself for feeling this way. It’s normal.
  • Learn from the feeling. It is trying to tell you something. 
  • Identify the area you need support.
  • Ask for help! Be humble and accepting of others’ knowledge and skills. 
  • Approach with a beginner’s mindset. Be a learner and not a knower. 

As a leadership coach, my clients are eager to learn and grow their skill set no matter what stage in their careers. Coaching works best when the client is an engaged and willing participant. It’s a misperception that only new leaders benefit from leadership coaching. Leaders at any stage of their journey benefit from support and guidance that fosters lifelong learning. What area/s do you want to grow in and who can support you in your growth? Are you strong enough to ask for help?