Asking, Accepting & Appreciating Help
There’s a quiet strength in independence—but sometimes, it can come at a cost.
For a long time, I struggled with something that many of us do:
Asking for help.
Accepting help.
Truly appreciating it when it comes.
It didn’t come easily to me. I was the kind of person who didn’t want to “burden” anyone. I often wouldn’t even mention that I was struggling until I’d already found a solution—or at least exhausted myself trying. I carried the heavy loads alone… and that meant I celebrated alone, too. And when I finally shared the good news, it sometimes felt hollow—like I’d skipped over the most human, relatable parts of the journey.
When we leave those parts out, we rob others of the opportunity to connect. They can’t see themselves in our story. They miss out on the reminder that they’re not alone in their own struggles.
Over the past few years, I’ve been working on this—actively and intentionally.
I’ve been learning to trust that:
I don’t always need to start from scratch.
Others may already have a trail map.
Receiving support doesn’t make me weak. It makes me human.
And while I haven’t perfected it (spoiler: no one ever really does), I’ve gotten better. Better at reaching out. Better at saying “yes” when help is offered. Better at receiving with grace—and deep gratitude.
Why share this now?
Because recently, I’ve been flooded with support—both literally and figuratively.
As some of you know, a severe flood caused extensive damage to both our home and my private salon. The impact was more devastating than I could’ve imagined. And yet, through the chaos, I’ve felt an overwhelming sense of support—from friends, clients, peers, and even kind strangers.
I’ve received encouraging emails, offers of workspaces, custom commissions, and donations. Some offers I haven’t even been able to fully respond to yet—but please know: every single gesture has meant the world.
During one of the most difficult seasons of my adult life, I haven’t felt alone. I’ve felt seen. Supported. Loved.
There’s a line I often say to one of my dearest friends—something I remind myself of, too:
“If you look toward the light at the end of the tunnel, I’m one of the many people holding flashlights.”
It’s a personal truth. One I try to live by, and one that’s been reflected back to me tenfold lately.
So if you’re in the tunnel right now, I hope you’ll look for your flashlight-holders—your people. They might show up as floodlights, torches, even a tiny matchstick. And when someone offers you a lit path with company? Take it. Choose it over walking alone in the dark.
Mindset Prompt:
This week, I invite you to reflect—whether through journaling or quiet thought:
How do you feel when you ask for help?
What emotions arise when someone offers it?
Does pride stop you from saying yes?
Do you feel shame based on what you “should” be able to handle?
Can you recall a time you needed help and didn’t ask?
How did it feel when you finally did accept help?
And now for the vulnerable part…
I’m sharing a link to donate.
This isn’t easy for me. But I’ve been inspired by other small business owners here in Hamilton who’ve turned to their communities in tough times—and reminded me that we’re never in this alone.
The rebuilding costs from the flood far exceed what insurance will cover, and your support—whether through a donation, sharing the link, or simply holding space—is deeply appreciated.
Thank you for being part of this journey.
For the support.
For the light.
For reminding me that community is everything.
—
With gratitude,
Andrea King