21/05/2025
This Wisdom Wednesday, we're looking at the Art of Asking for help for those moments when you just need a little bit of support to get back on your feet. Often, at times when we are overwhelmed with work and study, we just need a little helping hand to get us back on track, but often at times even that can be a challenge. Here are some helpful tips that will help you with asking for help:
1 - It's a sign of strength, not weakness: Changing the narrative around asking for help can show self-awareness and a willingness to grow. Do not see it as a weakness in your ability, but instead as a strength in your character that you want to improve.
2 - Everyone needs support: It's important to remember that everyone needs support. Whether it's your friendship group, your colleagues, your fellow pupils, or your family. It is perfectly normal to reach out and ask for support.
3 - Clarify what support you need: Clearly articulate what kind of help you are trying to seek. For example, clearly outline what objective outcome you are trying to achieve with their additional support; this could be a specific mark you would like to achieve with the added help of additional reading or further mentoring.
4 - Who is best to ask: A large network of trusted people is a good thing, but it is important to remember who to ask for help. While it would be a good thing to ask your trainer for help on an assessment, it may be less useful to ask them for advice on falling out with your ex-best friend.
5 - Practice active listening: Listen carefully to the support that is given to you. Prepare to be offered suggestions and feedback based on what you are asking help for. It's important that you actively engage in the conversation when asking for help.
6 - Follow up: Never be discouraged from expressing gratitude to those who have offered support. Whether their support had a large or small impact, it is important to reflect that someone with your network gave the time to support you. By doing this, you are growing your trust with that person who offered support, and you will be able to ask for help again in the future.
