You are smart, accomplished and look like you have the world by the tail. People turn to you for advice, and you make your living being confident and sure. And yet…
you have a dirty little secret. There’s a part of you that needs help. But you don’t feel safe showing this vulnerability to anyone.
I hear you!
Some years ago, after my father died, I took over his small publishing house. As a consultant, I’d helped many CEOs grow their businesses profitably, but I struggled with my father’s company. I needed help, and yet how could I let anyone know I didn’t have all the answers when I was the one they relied on for expertise and advice? My reputation and self-image were at stake, and I didn’t know who to turn to.
In the midst of all this, I went to a business conference, and during the opening remarks the keynote invited us to find someone we admired and confess any vulnerability we had about our businesses.
Lisa Lorimer was a thriving entrepreneur I’d met a few years earlier. I had enormous respect for her, and during lunch, I sat with her and began to confess how I felt. I was so embarrassed I could hardly get out my words (not usually a problem for me).
Once I did? What a relief!
“I know the clients you do consulting for,” Lisa told me. “And they all love you. Any one of them would be thrilled to help you.”
Really?
Yes!
When you are feeling vulnerable and need help, take this Yippee Challenge:
- Realize you are not the first or the last to be where you are.
- List three other instances where asking for help got you out of a bind.
- Find a non-judgmental colleague you admire and set up a time to ask for some help. Keep in mind, you have the truest answers, this is just a catalyst to get you on your way!
- Remember: asking for help is the hardest part. Letting go of what feels like a dirty secret can free up a lot of energy.
There are also tons of ideas and tools on this website and you can take inspiration from my YIPPEE Story.
Until next Tuesday. YIPPEE!
Elizabeth
Don’t know who to ask or feel like you have too many questions to sort out right now? Come join us! The next Discover Your Yippee Retreat is in Nashville, September 19-20. You’ll leave with a plan and some new trusted friends (if you and a friend register together, you get an additional $50 each off the price!)