Some days feel like you’ve been idling in your driveway for hours. Others feel like you threw your car into reverse without looking. And then…there are the days where it feels like you’re on the tollroad with no cars in sight, and, better yet, you’re picking up speed.
Rebuilding my freelance career has been all of that–and more. Thanks to some amazing friends and former colleagues, I’ve been able to augment my portfolio with some additional elements that have smoothed the pavement, so to speak, and enabled me to hit the accelerator. It’s a moment worth stopping and savoring–and appreciating.
One of the hardest life lessons for me has been learning to ask for help. I grew up in a household that prized self-sufficiency. I was taught to work hard, push through anything and everything, don’t pause to feel, and only trust in yourself. Asking questions or asking for help–those weren’t regarded as the hallmarks of a smart, driven, successful individual. So I didn’t do them. Until now.
And you know what? It’s so much more fun to feel supported, and to provide support. Building community is hard when it doesn’t come naturally. But once you do, it feels great. If you, too, were raised in a “if you want to get it done, do it yourself” environment, it’s not too late. It feels weird at first, but it’s worth it to give it a try.
Tell me how it went for you.
Changing Lanes 