I recently listed to Dare to Lead by Brené Brown. In this book (and basically all her books), she talks about vulnerability, fear, and courage. Brené defines vulnerability as "uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure." And, of course, these things make us afraid. "But vulnerability is not weakness; it's our most accurate measure of courage" (quotes copied from here). We cannot be brave unless we feel fear. Otherwise it's just an action within our comfort zone and no courage is necessary.
As I was thinking about this concept, I realized that for most (if not all) of my clients, asking for help with decluttering is a very vulnerable action. They feel uncertain about how it will work, risk about if it is worth the time and money, and emotional exposure to both me as the coach, and also to their family and friends who will find out that they are hiring someone to help them sort and organize their home. However, despite all these reasons to be afraid, they pushed through and asked for my help. THAT is serious courage. The following quote by Brené explains this concept perfectly:
So, whether you are thinking about asking me for some decluttering help, your child to help out more around the house, your significant other to be more communicative in the bedroom, or your boss to give you a raise, realize that it is vulnerable, it will make you feel nervous (or terrified), but it will be brave, and it will be worth it. By asking for help, you are showing others that it is okay to ask you for help.
Ask someone for some help today.
Be brave.
Comment a time you recently asked for help. How did it feel?
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