One of the most difficult things for me to do is ask for help. My ability to be sufficient and strong, to shoulder issues and tote them along, to handle things or get them done developed over the years but it started when I was fairly young. My image of myself is someone who helps others. I think of myself as dependable, able to function well in a crisis, whether it’s mine or someone else’s. I like being someone on whom others can rely.
Asking for help doesn’t come easily to me. Even though I’ve learned that needing help is not a sign of weakness, I’m still mostly reluctant to ask. I’m not sure why because the times that I do, don’t diminish my strength. I get the help, appreciate it, reciprocate whenever I can and go on.
Receiving help generally makes us stronger. It shores us up like support beams on a building. There’s no reason to be embarrassed or dismayed when we need a boost. It’s okay. Just like we’re present for family and friends when they need something, the people in our lives are ready to give to us when we need them.
I’m not sure why I embarked on this topic tonight. It’s most likely because, after my posts last week, a dear friend who is also on this weight loss journey connected me with an online support group. I realized that I’m not ashamed to admit that I need more support than I’ve been seeking. If we had OA meetings locally, I’d go, but we don’t. You all are incredibly supportive here, and that has been incredibly helpful over the last many months. I wouldn’t replace that for anything. I just need even more. So, I’ve asked and I am receiving.
Instead of feeling weaker, I feel stronger for having put this out into the universe. I know that I’ll be able to build on it from here.
Weighty Matters 
Good for you! I’m glad you are getting the extra support you need. We won’t be jealous! 🙂
I have difficulties asking for help, too, although I love to give help. It’s that double standard: if I ask for help, I am showing weakness. If others ask me for help, they are simply asking me to assist them. *shakes head* I’m glad you connected with that online community.
Skye, you know exactly what I mean. I definitely need to change my mindset.
Together we can do what we cannot do alone. That is just so true. xxoo
Exactly, Chrissy!