Somehow I don't think this is something that can be taught. I think that some people just are able to work out a problem, and other people make their problems, your problem. It's a real challenge to develop a workplace where people can get help when they need it, but can also just push forward to sort out their own problems.
There is another whole bunch of people who won't ask for help of course. It's that Southern Man thing, you know, I don't need anyone to help me, I can do it myself. Actually I've had three children (so far) who were born with that attitude.
This is also not that helpful. Sometimes you do just need to ask for help, it's not a bad thing. It makes me think that we need the right mix of ingredients in our workplace to balance the finding your own solution with asking for help when you need it. Maybe some of these things....
- Being able to make mistakes without being criticised
- Being able to take a bit longer on something new
- Being able to work along side someone who is more experienced
- Knowing that you can always ask a question
- Having the flexibility to be able to try something new and now be forced to do it a particular way
- Knowing that you won't be judged if it's not quite right
I'd like to think that we are developing a culture in our company where people can learn and grow. It's one of our core values and its really really important to us. In fact I won't employ someone who doesn't have their own dreams and goals for their life.
Having a dream, a vision or a goal is why people get out of bed in the morning, and being able to ask for help will help them get there faster.
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