How do you ask for help when you need it? Or do you even ask?
I’m headed back to the “Church Basement” next month. We haven’t done this particular “episode” of the series in 5 years, which means that this month is about memorizing. And asking people to help me memorize.
I was talking with a friend over the weekend and told her I need to end the call by 7:30 because that’s when my mom could run lines with me. “She’s the one doing me the favor, so of course I want to respect her schedule.”
The friend (who is very polite and generally on time!) had never thought about it that way before. When someone else is doing something for you, one of the ways you thank them is to respect their boundaries.
I’d suggest taking it one step further. As you ask them what you need, immediately ask them what’s the best time or place or method they prefer for getting it done. It respects them and honors the fact that they are helping you, and when it feels more like an even exchange, it’s easier to ask again.