Last week, my parents needed some help. So I flew to New York to help, and asked folks for even more help.

And a magnificent wave of family, friends, neighbors, and helping pros heeded the call. I’m now back home in LA on relatively stable ground with a current of gratitude running through me, and a strong sense that we’re deeply supported, no matter what happens next. Help FTW!

Asking for help can be hard for a million reasons:

• “I should be able to handle this myself”
• “I don’t want to burden anyone”
• “They’ll see me as weak or [insert your own pejorative adjective]”

But I’ve become somewhat of a pro at it. Mostly because I tried the alternative (being an independent, eldest-daughter millennial #GirlBoss who HAD IT ALL UNDER CONTROL 😅) and that landed me in the hospital, so I needed to learn a different way.

Now I spend my days helping people hit up their network, interview for jobs, and pitch their services and products—which is really just “asking for help” dressed up in a suit and tie (and sometimes an iced coffee). And I’ve developed a nose for when shame, guilt, or fear is holding someone back from asking for help and a knack for dissolving it so they can connect with allies and get the support they deserve.

What’s something you’ve been trying to solve or achieve for a while?

I’m willing to bet you’ve already tried every trick in the book.

(This is a newsletter for passionate powerhouses, not couch potatoes with victim mindsets, after all 😉)

Now brainstorm: Who might help you get there more easily?

Perhaps it’s someone who’s walked the path you’re considering or overcome the challenge you’re wrestling with. Maybe it’s someone whose mindset and approach always leave you feeling inspired. Maybe there’s a course that could teach you a critical skill.

Maybe it’s an expert guide who’s helped over a hundred people design careers they love (cough, yes, I am talking about me).

If it’s not an obvious no-brainer to reach out to them, I’m super curious what’s holding you back. Maybe you just need to hear this?

• People love to help: One of my favorite coaching moments is when clients start tapping their network. Most are skeptical-to-downright-terrified about putting themselves out there. But every single time we craft their strategy and reach-outs, their network shows up! The world is wild right now, and people genuinely want to support each other. You’re giving them the gift of making an impact.
• Ghosts don’t have a vendetta (Happy Halloween!): No response, or a “can’t help”? Look for a lesson, then move on. And don’t take it personally. I’ve been professionally ghosted countless times, only to hear back months (or years!) later that the person was going through a hard time. In fact, I see it as a good thing: when someone lets their LinkedIn inbox slide, it often means they’re protecting their energy.

Finally, knowing you, you’ve given a lot to others. What if it’s your turn? If you’re ready, the first step is below.

Onward!
Grace

P.S. Last week’s How to Become Layoff-Proof workshop has a new date: Tuesday 11/3 at 3pm ET. Save your seat!