Episode #20 Ask For Help

Friendships, communities, and businesses are all stronger when we open up about our shortcomings and lean on each other for support. This week, Dr. Michael Brown and Amy Seiffert discuss the crucial practice of inviting assistance from those around us.

Show Notes

We tend to think that we would love to offer help if someone asked for help. But we think we are the exception. If we ask for help, surely we will be viewed as needy and weak and a burden.
Dr. Michael Brown

Three Problems

  • If we fail to ask for help, the people who love us most may not know how to help us.
  • Demanding help is easier but less effective than asking for help.
  • Counseling and coaching often exist because community does not.

Three Principles

  • Asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a sign of courage.
  • Asking for help gives others the opportunity to use their unique strengths and abilities.
  • Asking for help ushers us into community and connection.

Three Practices

  • In the next 24 hours, ask a close friend for prayer or a word of advice.
  • Make a practice of verbalizing the phrase, “I need your help.”
  • Attempt to defuse your next tense conversation with the question, “Will you help me?”