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How to ask for help -- and get a "yes" | Heidi Grant

TED Talks Daily

How to ask for help -- and get a "yes" | Heidi Grant

Asking for help is tough. But to get through life, you have to do it all the time. So how do you get comfortable asking? In this actionable talk, social psychologist Heidi Grant shares four simple rules for asking for help and getting it -- while making the process more rewarding for your helper, too.

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Notes

  1. Why Is It So Difficult to Ask for Help at 1:17

    Even though it’s foolish for us to be afraid to admit that we need help from a loved one, we always feel embarrassed and uncomfortable when we ask for help. Full answer

  2. What Is the Illusion of Transparency at 3:28

    It’s the mistaken belief that our thoughts, feelings, and needs are obvious to other people. This isn’t true, but we believe it. Full answer

  3. What Are Helpful Things to Do When Asking for Help at 5:43

    There are four things to keep in mind. When you ask for help, be extremely specific about the help you want and why. Full answer

  4. Is It Better to Ask in Person for Help at 8:46

    Yes, it is better than email or text requests. In person requests for help are 30 times more likely to get a “yes” than a request made by email. Full answer

  5. What Is Rewarding About Helping at 9:59

    When helpers knows that their help had an impact on the person asking for help. Full answer

  6. What Does Heidi Grant Say Is the Reality of Modern Work and Life? at 12:18

    Social psychologist Heidi Grant says on TED Talks Daily that asking for help feels vulnerable, and she knows it is not easy. Full answer

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