January 15, 2026
Asking for help and accepting help are two different things.
Sometimes we share with others what's weighing on us: a complex decision we're wrestling with, a commitment that's feeling heavier than we expected, a challenge we're not sure we can handle alone.
When we're brave enough to be honest about where we are, something beautiful often happens: people offer to help.
I have often responded to offers of help with "Thank you for that generous offer. I think I'm good."
Recently, though, I've been trying something different: "Thank you for that generous offer. I'd love to accept your help!"
Here's what's been amazing:
Accepting help hasn't made me feel weak or incapable. It's made me feel more capable. It's deepened my connection with the generous people who've stepped in. And that matters because we genuinely need each other.
A Next Step:
The next time someone offers to help you, pause before saying no. What might you gain by saying yes? How might accepting support strengthen the relationships and cultures you're part of?