Old Happy’s culture of individualism tells you that you need to do everything in your life on your own, all by yourself, and if you can’t, then you are broken, flawed, and unworthy. It’s no wonder that so many people struggle to ask for help — from a very early age, we are taught to avoid it at all costs.

The mindset is a recipe for both personal and collective pain. No one can do anything alone. Moreover, trying to do everything alone hurts you. Instead of leaning on other people’s strengths, insights, and love, you go without, struggling through without the support that you deserve. It’s an instinct that makes the fine times feel hard and makes the hard times feel impossible.

People who ask for help are strong. Not just because they have shown that they’re willing to go against Old Happy’s culture. But because they are demonstrating that they are committed to persevering. They want to get better. They want to find a way to improve. They want to heal their pain. They see a brighter future and they are absolutely, determinedly, courageously moving towards it. What could be stronger than that?

If you are struggling to ask for what you need, I want you to say these words to yourself: “Asking for help shows just how strong I am.” Every single person out there needs help. And every single one of our lives would be a lot better if we all learned to offer more help to others and ask for it in return.