Sometimes asking for help is the bravest move you can make. You don’t have to go at it alone.

If you find yourself reluctant to ask for help when you need it, you’re not alone. Society has instilled a belief that individuals who are strong and capable don’t ask for help. In the process of trying to be that strong and capable person, we’ve actually succumbed to fear. Fear of imposing on someone. Fear of revealing a struggle. Fear of losing control of the situation. These are all strong fears so it’s no wonder that we don’t ask for help or support more often.

Asking for help is one of the hardest life skills to practice, but it’s a skill that makes you a better human. Humans naturally want to share experiences. Humans naturally want to feel supported and we naturally like to support and give to others. Tribes were built off of this concept, but in a staunchly individualistic world we’ve lost sight of our innate tribal values.

When you don’t ask for help, you’re denying yourself the opportunity to receive and you’re depriving those who’d love to help you of the chance to do so. The greatest thing about asking is that, in doing so, you’re giving someone the opportunity to give. You’re allow others to experience the happiness that comes from giving and you’re creating an environment of collaboration while doing so.

As a new year roars in with its fresh hope and new opportunities, we find ourselves ready to turn a new leaf- to continue to strive toward a better self. Remember that you don’t have to enter this year alone. Let’s set our egos and unhealthy fears aside and courageously look to others for help!