By Susan Robertson – May 2, 2013

Think about success. How do you define success? What does it mean to you? Each person has a unique definition, guided by his or her purpose and values. It can include financial rewards, healthy relationships, career advancement and many other achievements.

Whatever your definition, there are a few key ingredients that people use when creating a successful life and becoming a successful leader. One of these key ingredients is learning how to ask for help. I recently came across a great video, in which the late Steve Jobs (circa 1994) talks about creating success, and the key ingredients he noticed in successful people.

Steve talks about asking for help. He illustrates how very few people ask for help, and sometimes this is what separates the achievers from the dreamers.

When we ask for help on a project–getting feedback on our view, getting things done–most people will do their best to help us. As leaders, when we ask for help and support, people are usually willing to help us.

Recently, I was speaking with a senior executive who said that the best part of his job is the people he works with. He said he knew he could ask for help from anyone on the team and they would drop what they were doing to help. He shared that he was willing to do the same. In his mind this creates trust, loyalty and a sense of meaning and purpose. Most importantly, because people on the team were willing to help and support each other, and because they cared, he was more committed as a leader to create a helpful environment.

As a leader, asking for help means you are open to possibility, and willing to listen. It also requires you to take action – to put yourself out there and ask. Take the risk to ask for help.

Finally, we must be willing to fail, to “crash and burn,” as Steve puts it. Without the willingness to fail, we can stay stuck in our comfort zones and never open ourselves to expanding our horizons. So expand your comfort zone, ask for help. The worst people can say is no.

If you receive help, return the favor. Remember—it is important to help others. As leaders, when we help others we inspire them to do their best. When people help us, we are grateful and inspired to return the favor. Today, take action and challenge yourself to see how many people you can help.

Ask yourself:

  • What do I want in my life (or in my role as a leader) that will help me further reach my goals and dreams?
  • Who can I ask to help me along my journey?
  • Who have I helped?

Who can I help?

Remember:

A good leader is one who can tell another how to reach his or her potential; a great leader is one who can help another discover this potential for him or herself.

– Bo Bennett, Author