Allowing someone to be influential in your life is a gift to them (as well as you–but more so them). Being influential gives a person a sense of value and purpose in their life.
The other day on campus, a former student approached me and asked if she could come by my office and talk about her future. She needed advice about her academic career. Just the simple act of her asking gave me the feeling that I was needed and appreciated. This is not the first time this sort of thing has happened; people have come to talk to me about all kinds of things and every time they have, I feel the same: loved, valued, appreciated and special. Events like this raise one’s self-esteem and level of happiness.
All too often we don’t ask for advice because we don’t want to bother someone. We don’t want to take up his or her valuable time. What we don’t realize is that many of us want to help; we want to be a part of the intricate fabric of life.
We don’t realize the power in allowing someone to be influential. So the next time you feel in need of something, allow someone to help. By asking, you’ll be helping them; You’ll be giving them a gift.
