The Essence of Vulnerability (virtuous cycle)

Why is asking for help the hardest thing? A rhetorical question: Because it makes us appear weak. Because it makes us feel incapable or less than or dumb or lazy. All descriptors of what manifests the pain of vulnerability: Shame, Guilt, Embarrassment, Unworthiness.

Take a breath, reverse the lens.

Why is helping someone the most pleasurable thing? Because it makes us feel useful. Because it makes us feel worthy and smart, and alive and happy. And engaged. And connected.

Asking for help may be the essence of vulnerability, but it’s also the greatest gift we can bestow. Give another person the opportunity to feel the joy, the connection; the opportunity for growth inherent in helping. It’s a virtuous cycle.