Asking for help can be daunting. Especially if you are in the helping profession. However, there have been several times in my life where taking that step was the best decision I could have made.

Reaching out to others in a time of need takes vulnerability – you know, the admission that you don’t have everything all figured out. Maybe you need to be honest with yourself and talk out loud about a situation with someone else?  Whatever your reasons, sharing your story – the real one – can be life-changing. Sometimes, that starts with a therapist or a trusted friend, and maybe with the end goal of sharing it more broadly to help others who are afraid.<p><p>

Those who have sat on my couch, realize that I am the first to admit I struggle with life too. And my close friends are also aware of this. However, there are many people on the periphery of my life that may only see the “put together” life I build at certain functions or online, etc.

Let me remind you – that is not the whole of someone’s story. That is the fun stuff, the professional persona, the version of oneself that we all need to co-exist in communities. But, I believe we lack depth in our relationships often times. I think we can do better in regards to connecting on a deeper level within our circles. Technology has impeded this for many. Personas are formed, perceived, and strictly protected through surface level images and one sentence posts online. We interact briefly at church or at a school function, but never let anyone really see inside.

What would happen if we all had a “tribe” we trusted to love us no matter what? Would we be more authentic, more transparent, and ultimately more accepting of ourselves and others?

Would we start to shift the cultural narrative of “do more, be more, need less, see less?” How would that impact our marriages, our children, our neighborhoods and larger communities? What if it was acceptable to ask for help? To be transparent? I believe we would get the help we needed earlier. Our children would be healthier, our communities would be stronger.

So the next time you feel isolated in your story, consider telling it. And if someone takes the brave step of opening up to you in a vulnerable way, consider listening and thanking them for trusting you. Be a part of the magic of true connection. And watch the world change around you.

If you are ready to take the next step in telling your story or asking for help, please reach out to us today. The Montfort Group in Plano can be a guide for you and your journey.