Asking for Help: Why It’s Not a Selfish Act

It can be hard for many of us to initiate the act of asking others to help us, no matter the circumstance. One important thing to remember, and to help reframe these situations, is to remember that you are helping others by asking them to support you.

As humans, we thrive off of community. And part of being in a community and building a stronger community is being able to work in unity. You can’t have friendships, relationships, families, workplaces, or any other type of community without mutual aid.

On the surface, asking others for help — whether it be with a project, an emotion, or a task — can feel selfish. It can make you feel like you’re taking their time away from their things so they can help you. I’m here to tell you that the people who say “yes” to your request for help will always feel useful being of service.

People often feel better, not worse, when their assistance is needed. Think about it from your own perspective: when somebody needs your help, it feels kind of good… right?

We thrive off of being available and of use to those around us, particularly those that we love. The next time you feel selfish, self-centered, or bothersome for needing and asking somebody for their help, take a moment to remember how satisfying it feels to be able to help somebody else.

We aren’t designed to do it all alone — any part of our lives. It’s incredibly important to allow others to support you!