Why is it so hard for moms to ask for help? We are constantly teaching our children to ask for help when they need things they cannot do by themselves, but we struggle with doing this ourselves. I know I really struggle with this sometimes.
For whatever reason, whether it is our culture, upbringing or personal insecurities; we view the act of seeking help as a weakness. I even feel vulnerable when I ask someone to help me out. Do you ever have that happen? I start questioning myself and wonder if they think I am less of a parent or not as professional. But why? We feel that asking for help shows were are unable to manage our tasks, or that we are unable to cope with our surroundings when in fact asking for help is showing exactly the opposite. It is showing strength and maturity knowing ones own limits and knowing what they can and cannot do themselves. There is also our tendency as mothers to want to have control over what is going on and asking for help could inhibit us from being in control or feel that the job might not be done as well if we don’t do it ourselves. I know I have this problem sometimes, but in reality I am often much happier having assistance when I need it rather that trying to take everything on, become overwhelmed and possibly not be able to manage all of my roles as a parent, business owner, student, wife etc.
How do we overcome this fear of asking for help? For me, the first step wasn’t even asking, it was accepting. In the past I thought the polite thing to do was say, “thank you, but no thank you” whenever someone would offer assistance. I’ve come to realize though, I never mind helping out my family, friends or even a stranger when I know they truly need it, so why should I feel the need to be “polite” when really I need the help. I had to learn that there are going to be times that I cannot do everything, nor should I even attempt to because it would only lead to me burning out. Allow people to help you. Ask for help when you need it. As a mom you will need help a lot in your life and learning to accept it is a huge step towards balancing your life. It’s not a sign of weakness or inability to cope; it is a sign of strength.
| Jessica is a proud mother of three – a 3 year old boy/tasmanian devil, a 7 year old daughter, and a thirties something husband (just joking Danny). I’m a homemaker, a life-long student and a business owner. I’m a native to Colorado and love to be out in all of the beautiful scenes that Colorado has to offer – whether by myself, with my family and/or with my camera. If you enjoyed Jessica’s posts check our her business page www.jessicanewmanphotography.com & make sure to like her on Facebook.
<em><strong>Check out other posts by our My719Mommy blogger Jessica!</strong></em> |
