LETTERS: We are living in a hyper-individualistic society which focuses on the individual.
We are thought to believe in self-love, self-healing and self-discovery. That we can do anything and everything on our own; that we do not need other people.
Then, Covid-19 hit our shores, and the emphasis on the individual has been greatly amplified through measures such as self-isolation, social distancing, self-test and self-control.
Our Asian society does not help matters. We were told about "'shame" and "losing face" in reaching out for help.
Nothing is wrong about depending on oneself but, at other times, have we ever wondered how things, situations, and our life can get just a little better if we reach out for help?
Asking for help is one of the most courageous things we can do. We are brave because we acknowledge that we need help.
We acknowledge that we are vulnerable; we realise things can be better, and what is greater than self-acknowledgement and self-realisation?
Asking for help does not mean we have failed, or we are a failure. One failure does not make us a failed person.
To quote the movie, Life as We Know It, asking for help means that we do not want to do something on our own anymore. Big or small, we never have to do everything by ourselves.
Also, there is nothing wrong with wanting some togetherness in completing things. Sometimes it is the togetherness that makes all the difference.
Reaching out for help also does not mean that we are troubling people.
In fact, when we reach out for help from someone who is better at and enjoys doing the thing that we are struggling with, we are actually bringing joy to that person as he or she can live his or her dreams.
And believe me, most people around us are kind-hearted. They will never consider helping us as troubling, an obligation or something they must do.
Showing that we are vulnerable and struggling could be overwhelming.
But there is no dishonour in asking for help.
Reach out for help and let other people help you. Your life will be better for it.
MOHAMAD SYAFIQ YA SHAK
Universiti Teknologi Mara
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times