If you’re not sure whether or not it is a good time, just ask. You can say, “I’ve love to ask for your help with something. Is there a time that’s good for you to talk?”
Maybe you’re traveling alone in a new city. If you’re lost, ask for directions. Stop into a nearby store, or ask the bus driver which stop you need. You may feel vulnerable speaking up for help, but a certain degree of vulnerability can help you find the help you need. Don’t feel weak, insecure, or embarrassed by asking for help.
Instead of saying to your partner, “I need you to help more around the house,” you may say, “Could you please take the trash out and also do a load of laundry, please?”
Don’t tell your co-worker, “I’m so swamped! Could you cover for me at the meeting this afternoon?” That might imply that you’re busy, but you don’t think your co-worker is. Instead, say, “I know we’re both busy, but you seem to be handling the stress better than me. Do you have time to take my place at the meeting this afternoon so that I can get caught up?”
Try not to say things like, “I’m so stupid. I’ll never get Algebra. Can you help me again?” Instead, say, “This is complicated, but I know I can do it. Would you mind showing me another sample problem?”
Maybe you just had your first mentoring session with your boss. You might feel like you didn’t receive the sort of helpful advice that you were hoping for. Instead of canceling your next meeting, try again. Prepare a list of specific questions that you have for them. If you asked someone for help and they didn’t come through, don’t be afraid to ask someone else. Sometimes, you may need to reach out to a few people before getting assistance.
If your friend is sick, offer to drop off some food for them. You’ll likely receive the same kind treatment when you find yourself in a bind.
Go to the grocery store Take the kids to dentist appointments Walk the dog Help with depression
Your partner Your siblings Your children Your best friend Your neighbors
This is called delegating tasks. Delegating tasks to people you trust can help you reduce stress, especially in times when you need extra help.
If your professor stayed after class to go over your paper with you, say, “Thanks for staying. I appreciate your time. ” Maybe your teen did some extra chores around the house when you were working late. Say, “That was really helpful of you to get dinner started. ”
You could tell your partner, “Thanks for making dinner tonight. It meant a lot to me to be able to just put my feet up after a long day at work. ”
