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By Ren\u00e9e Trudeau<\/p>\n
The week before final exams my freshman year in college, my healthy, 44-year-old dad had a massive heart attack. I was devastated. But what saddens me as I look back on that rough time, is that I didn\u2019t reach out for support. Other than sharing the news with one close friend, I kept my feelings to myself, armored up my tender heart and marched straight into my exams. I think I failed all but one of my tests. I often wish I could go back and tell my young 18-year-old self: \u201cIt\u2019s ok, you don\u2019t have to always hold it together. Learning to ask for help is a strength and an asset.\u201d As the oldest of seven in a hyper-independent, achievement-oriented family, I had to work hard to cultivate this skill.<\/p>\n
Over the last 20 years in working with organizations, teams and professionals around work-life balance, I\u2019ve observed that people who are comfortable asking for and receiving help\u2014whether that\u2019s from a coach, a therapist, a mentor, professional organization, business partner, neighbor, friend or colleague\u2014experience greater success and feel more connected and confident in all areas of their lives. Having a support system can have a huge impact on how you experience day-to-day life.<\/p>\n
Research shows that individuals who have robust support systems:
\n\u2022 are more effective at work and at home (they feel as if they have a \u201cteam\u201d behind them and that they\u2019re not all alone);
\n\u2022 weather personal and professional challenges more easily, are less likely to feel overwhelmed and are better at maintaining perspective;
\n\u2022 stay healthier on all levels and keep resolutions\u2014particularly those involving mental and physical well-being;
\n\u2022 are less likely to feel isolated (isolation can lead to feelings of despair and failure) and experience less stress and burnout;
\n\u2022 have children who are comfortable asking for and receiving support and help from others.<\/p>\n
Learning to get comfortable asking for and receiving help takes serious practice. Even though it\u2019s difficult for most of us, it\u2019s in our nature to give and receive help. We are meant to experience community and connection, to lean on and into each other, not just when things get tough\u2014but every day!<\/p>\n