Yesterday, as Janson and I were getting ready for the day, we heard a knock on our bedroom door. Immediately following, a folded up piece of paper slid beneath the crack between the door frame and the carpet.
This is what we found:
One of our nine year old twins had intricately folded a piece of paper into a square, had drawn hearts and written the words, “Open me” on the front. After fully opening the paper, we read the message that was hidden inside, “to dad Can you help me? -Payton”
It was such a sweet and unexpected way to ask for help, and it reminded me how natural—and necessary—it is to reach out when we need support.
Janson and I looked at each other and smiled.
Then Janson opened the door to find Payton looking up, with the question in his eyes and a smile on his face. Janson asked, “What do you need help with buddy?” Payton grabbed Janson’s hand and led him to his bedroom to solve a problem.
This little note was such a great reminder to us.
Why We Struggle to Ask for Help
Recently, Janson and I have hit some roadblocks with our business and have been researching, debating and wondering what steps to take next. (In full disclosure, I really really love teaching, writing and speaking, but we are not great at marketing and letting people know what I do.) As an entrepreneur, it’s easy to become stuck in the silo of thinking, “I can do that on my own.” One task becomes two and two becomes four until you’re swimming in limitless tasks above your knowledge and pay grade.
There’s this idea that strength means doing it all on your own. We often think that asking for help is a weakness. Looking back at my Olympic journey, for years I thought being “strong” meant gritting my teeth and pushing through, no matter what. Whether I was training on the skeleton track, building a business, or navigating the chaos of parenthood, I thought it would be easier just doing it on my own.
But here’s the truth: real strength is knowing when to reach out.
What Sports Taught Me About Asking for Help
I couldn’t have reached the Olympic podium alone. I had coaches who corrected my form, teammates who motivated me, and family who supported me through every high and low. That same principle applies to every part of life.
Entrepreneurs: You Don’t Have to Do it Alone
You are visionaries! But that doesn’t mean you have to know everything from finance and marketing to operations and customer service. Asking for help from a mentor, coach, or even your team doesn’t show weakness. Asking for help builds stronger companies and smarter leaders.
Parents Need Support Too
We are raising the next generation, and it’s hard! Some days, you battle sleep deprivation, feel overwhelmed, and question whether you’re doing it right. Reaching out to a friend, a counselor, or even saying “I need a break” isn’t giving up. It’s showing up more fully for your family.
You’re Not Meant to Go It Alone
Whether you’re chasing a dream, grieving a loss, or simply trying to find balance, know that you were never meant to go it alone. We’re wired for connection, and we grow faster, stronger, and wiser when we lean on others.
The Courage to Ask for Help Can Change Everything
In the Psychology Today article titled, “How Asking for Help Can Change Your Life”, Dr. James R. Langabeer reminds us that “asking for help is one of the most powerful yet underutilized tools we have for improving our lives.”
I also love this quote from Helen Keller:
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”
I’ve lived that truth. From the skeleton track to the speaking stage, and everywhere in between. I’ve seen how much farther we go when we go together. Payton’s note is a great reminder to me that when I’m feeling overwhelmed, it’s time to ask for help so that I can move past the feelings of being stuck and I can begin moving forward with a solution.
What is something weighing on your mind?
What is a problem that you don’t have a solution for?
Who can help you sort through your options?
Give yourself permission to ask for help. Ask a friend, a neighbor, a peer, a professional, or a loved one. The courage to ask for help often opens doors to solutions, support, and unexpected opportunities.
Quote to Ponder
“You can do anything, but not everything.” -David Allen
Question to Consider
What challenges are you currently facing that might become lighter if you simply asked for help?
Click on the Links Below to Access More Articles That Teach What to Do When You Feel Stuck
How to Get Back on Track After Falling Short – In this article, Noelle teaches that when you fail, life offers you a chance to start again with a new outlook.
No Mistakes, Only Happy Accidents – Discover how Bob Ross’s mantra — “no mistakes, only happy accidents” — can transform your approach to painting and life’s everyday setbacks.