This week, we explore why asking for help feels like admitting defeat and how this mindset keeps us isolated when we could be achieving breakthrough results through collaboration.
The Big Question: Why do I treat asking for help like admitting defeat?
The 4 Key Blocks:
- Fear of being a burden: Remember that people generally want to help, and healthy relationships require reciprocity—let others contribute to you too.
- Not wanting unwanted advice: Set clear context about what you need—processing time, brainstorming, validation, or specific solutions.
- Feeling like failure: Challenge the core belief that your value comes from figuring everything out independently. Ask yourself: Do I want to be right or successful?
- Concern about others' perceptions: Reframe asking for help as co-creation and inclusion. The strongest leaders collaborate and show vulnerability.
Remember: Asking for help isn't defeat—it's how you create something bigger than you could build alone. You deserve support, and collaboration leads to breakthrough results.
Key Takeaway: The sum is greater than the parts. Stop treating independence as strength and start treating co-creation as the path to your best work.
Resources for this Episode: Uncompete by Ruchika T. Mahotra
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As always, thank you for your leadership.
Resources:
- Navigating a big transition? Check out our Pivot Plan: 8 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Your Next Big Move.
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- Interested in going deeper in your own leadership and building your network? Join the waitlist for The CoCreate Work Leadership Book Club to explore the themes from this episode in community—through powerful reads, reflection prompts, and live conversations.
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