Never Stand on the Top of a Ladder
FABLES FOR OUR GRANDCHILDREN
READING TIME: 2 MINUTES
People say you learn the best lessons by the mistakes you make - so here’s one of ours. Paw and I decided to build a garage. We share a strong belief in self-reliance so we did much of the work alone. To skip to the important part of this story, one sunny day, I found myself standing on the very top of a step ladder, while holding up a gigantic wooden triangle that would eventually support the roof of this new garage. My job was to keep it as stable as possible while Paw fastened my triangle to the walls while standing on his step ladder. Although we got them all in place, we realized we were idiots to take such a risk. Falling to the concrete below could have been crippling or fatal. Why take that risk? Clearly, we should have asked for help, so why didn’t we?
Because we don’t want to impose on other people.
We are taught to admire tough people who get through things on their own.
We’re afraid people won’t say “yes” to helping us or think we’re weak, or dumb, or lazy.
Asking for help is an admission that we’re not perfect and we hate to admit that to anyone including ourself.
But asking for help is foundational to a happy and successful life. So here’s some thoughts to help you.
Be a helpful person yourself. It’s the right way to be and, as a bonus, it makes people more willing to help you.
Most people are willing to help you. We all understand we may need a favor from you some day.
Before you ask, “own your ignorance.” (That’s what Paw calls it, anyway). Admit to yourself that you can’t get this on your own or you don’t understand.
Give the person an out. Say something like…
“If you’re not busy right now, could you give me a ride to the doctor. No problem if you’re busy, though. I have other people I can ask.”
“Would you consider helping me with my homework assignment? I know you’re busy. No pressure.”
Always express your gratitude and ask if there’s something you can do for them. Depending on how big the favor was, you might want to send a thank you note or give them a gift.
After all these years on the planet, your Granny and Paw can both attest how critically important it is to know when to ask for help and to have the courage to do it. It’s the mark of a confident and amazing person. Why? Because they learn more, do more, and become someone that other people ask when they need help. If you want to be one of those happy and amazing people, ask for help.
So, what was that again? We forgot. What do you need help with?
I love you,
Granny