Seeking Help and Support: A Path to Personal and Professional Growth

Seeking help and support is a pathway to personal and professional growth, and a hallmark of success, not weakness. Those who follow this principle are better prepared to handle life's challenges and reach their goals.

Introduction

How do you feel about seeking help and support when the need arises?

Vulnerable? Embarrassed? Inadequate? Weak?

You’re not alone. It happens to all of us. Remember that what you feel doesn’t define you– it’s just how you feel at that particular moment.

Why not just go ahead and ask for help and support? What have you got to lose?

I firmly believe that when you can sum up the courage and ask, you’ll likely receive what you ask for. Just go ahead and ask!

The Stigma Surrounding Seeking Help

In our society, there has long been a stigma attached to seeking help, whether it's for personal issues or professional challenges. Many believe that asking for assistance implies a lack of competence or a weakness of character. However, this misconception couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, some of the most accomplished leaders and successful individuals actively seek help and support to manage and overcome the complexities of life.

An example is Steve Jobs, the late co-founder of Apple who received mentorship and support from Mike Markkula, an early investor and former Apple CEO, who guided Jobs through critical decisions at the beginning of Apple's journey.

Another example is Sheryl Sandberg, the COO of Facebook who openly discussed the support she received after the sudden death of her husband, crediting her ability to overcome grief to the help she received from friends, family, and professionals.

Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence plays a pivotal role in understanding why seeking help is a strength rather than a weakness. Research has shown that emotional intelligence is a key predictor of success in both personal and professional life. Individuals with higher emotional intelligence are better equipped to manage their emotions, empathise with others, and build strong, meaningful relationships.

According to a study conducted by TalentSmart, 90% of high performers at work possess high emotional intelligence. These individuals are more self-aware, resilient, and adaptable. They know when to ask for help and how to do so effectively, which lead to greater personal and professional growth.

Personal Growth through Seeking Help

In our personal lives, seeking help can be transformative. Whether it's addressing personal challenges, mental health issues, or seeking guidance for personal development, individuals who seek support are more likely to overcome obstacles and lead happier, more fulfilling lives.

Mental Health America reports that 80% of people who sought help for their mental health concerns saw significant improvements in their overall well-being. This demonstrates the immense benefit of reaching out for assistance in our personal lives, dispelling the myth that it signifies vulnerability.

Professional Success through Collaboration

In the corporate world, seeking help and support is not just a sign of wisdom, it's a hallmark of leadership. Successful executives and leaders understand that the intricacies of corporate life often require the knowledge and expertise of others. They actively seek advice, coaching, and mentorship to stay at the top of their game.

A Harvard Business Review study found that 84% of CEOs received mentorship or coaching in their careers, and those who did were more likely to lead high-performing companies. Seeking help in the form of mentorship or coaching can significantly impact one's career trajectory and overall success.

Overcoming the Fear of Vulnerability

The fear of appearing vulnerable often holds people back from seeking help and support. However, vulnerability is not a weakness, it's a courageous act of authenticity. Brené Brown, a renowned researcher on vulnerability, emphasises that embracing vulnerability can lead to greater connection, creativity, and resilience.

As a corporate leader and executive leadership coach, I encourage my associates, clients, and people around me to recognise that seeking help and support is a strength, not a weakness. It takes self-awareness, humility, and a commitment to growth. Individuals demonstrate their dedication to becoming better leaders and better versions of themselves when they seek assistance.

Conclusion

The statistics and facts are clear: seeking help and support is a pathway to personal and professional growth. Whether it's honing emotional intelligence, achieving personal growth, or excelling in the corporate world, actively seeking assistance is a hallmark of success, not weakness. I've experienced how individuals who practice this principle are better equipped to manage and overcome life's complexities and achieve their desired results. I sincerely hope you do not hesitate to seek help and support whenever the need arises.