At times life can be very stressful for youth. It’s easy to get lost in the seemingly endless challenges like university applications, getting work experience, school, and preparing for your future. It can be difficult to take a step back and imagine things from a new point of view. Sometimes you get so caught up in your thought patterns that you don’t see what’s sitting right in front of you. Sometimes you’re humbled to find out that you don’t know it all.
In times like these, I find it is best to reach out to others so they can help guide you through the unknown. As it turns out, there are giant depositories of knowledge at the tips of your fingers. (No I’m not talking about Google). I’m talking about the countless knowledgeable adults who have walked in your shoes. I recently concluded that there are many things I do not yet grasp an understanding of. However, so many people do. For example, a couple of months ago I needed legal advice for the business that I run. I didn’t know where to turn, lawyers cost an arm and a leg, but I couldn’t go without one’s advice. Luckily, I already knew an experienced lawyer who ran their own business. The only problem was that initially, I was far too shy to ask for help. I talked myself out of contacting him. I assumed he would be bothered by my request. As a matter of fact, the only reason I decided to reach out, in the end, was because someone else convinced me to. And to my delightful surprise, I was wrong.
It turned out that the lawyer was happy to lend a hand. He not only helped me navigate corporate law but also taught me numerous little lessons along the way, and one big lesson. He taught me that most often if you dare to ask others for help, they will provide it. Whether you need help with your business, school, relationships, or something completely different. The chances are that there’s someone in your life who has the key. Sometimes all you have to do is ask for them to pass it along. Imagine a future version of yourself, would that future version of you feel better knowing that you never tried at all? Or that you did try and came to a concise conclusion? If you just take the time to overcome your hesitations you will rapidly realize that the world has numerous great people filled with plenty of amazing knowledge.
