Asking for help in business (and in life) is a sign of strength. It demonstrates confidence, leadership, and a commitment to teamwork. It is also a selfless act. I have learned this in over 45 years as a business leader.
Yet, almost every day I observe people in and outside my organization who appear determined to “fly solo.” Many people resist asking for help out of fear of showing weakness or a lack of capability. Our fear is what gets in the way. Fear about taking advantage of a friendship. Fear of appearing “less than.” Fear of “bothering” a colleague or superior. Fear of communicating our struggles and having colleagues thinking we don’t have control of our business and responsibilities.
However, when you don’t ask for help when you truly need it, you assume ALL of the risk of failure that might have been shared by others who actually want to help you succeed.
There is a long-time business adage that says the meaning of “T.E.A.M.” is “Together Each Achieves More.” Nothing could be truer. As a former football player, I learned that success was going to depend upon the collaborative efforts of eleven people. On a given play, if one player out of eleven didn’t do his job, the entire team failed. My coach, Steve Cohen, taught me to ask for help. He was tough on me in practice, sometimes more so than he was to many of my teammates. I asked him why he was seemingly always instructing me, and he told me he believed in me and that he thought I could become a really good player. In fact, he said, “I am here to help you improve, and if the day ever comes that I am not pointing out how you could have done a better job, that’s the day you should be worried.” After that, I went to him consistently asking for help in my blocking and tackling techniques or to explain the strategy around certain plays and blocking schemes. I learned then that too often we ‘tough it out’ rather than reaching out to ask for help when we need it the most.
Why Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength
In reality, seeking assistance is a profound act of strength and courage. Here are some of the reasons why:
1. Acknowledgment of Limitations
No one is perfect or possesses all the answers. Recognizing and admitting our limitations requires a deep sense of self-awareness and humility. When we ask for help, we demonstrate our ability to acknowledge our deficiencies and seek the information or support we need. This is the first step towards personal growth.
2. Building Connections and Relationships
Asking for help fosters collaboration and builds stronger relationships. When we reach out, we create opportunities for deeper connections and mutual support. Being interconnected is vital for emotional well-being and personal development. Mentors at work and in life help us maximize our opportunity to achieve happiness, success, and a sense of well-being.
3. Demonstrating Confidence and Courage
It takes confidence to admit that we don’t have all the answers and courage to seek help from others. Being vulnerable showcases our commitment to improve. It sends a powerful message that we want to overcome challenges and are not afraid to lean on others we respect and trust.
4. Encouraging a Culture of Support
By asking for help, we contribute to a culture where seeking assistance is normalized and encouraged. This can lead to more open communication and a supportive environment, at work, within our family, or among associates. It sets a positive example for others, showing that it’s okay to reach out and that no one has to face difficulties alone. I have been in business for over four decades, and I am proud to proclaim that I ask for help every day.
5. Enhancing Problem-Solving Skills
Working as a team generally leads to enhanced solutions. When we ask for assistance, we tap into the collective knowledge and experience of others. This provides new perspectives and innovative approaches that we probably would not have considered on our own.
6. Personal Growth and Learning
Asking for help is a learning opportunity. It allows us to obtain knowledge that we may not have had before. Continuous learning is essential for personal and professional growth. It also teaches us how to navigate challenges more effectively with the support of others.
7. Promoting Mental Health
Struggling in silence can lead to unnecessary stress and mental health issues. Reaching out for help can alleviate this burden, providing emotional relief and support. It’s a proactive step towards maintaining mental well-being, being happy, and preventing burnout.
Conclusion
Asking for help is a testament to our strength and determination to grow, learn, and to connect with others. It reflects our self-awareness, courage, and confidence. This tenet can create a more supportive and collaborative company (and world) where everyone feels empowered to seek the assistance they need. So, the next time you face a challenge, remember that asking for help is one of the bravest things you can do.
