Sometimes the bravest thing you’ll ever do is ask for help. I tell this to my clients, friends and family all the time. And while I’m often joking about taxes, business advice, relationship woes or picking out the right outfit, asking for advice can be scary. We become vulnerable and allow people to see that we don’t have it all figured out. They see under our layers and straight to our heart. Sometimes, asking for help is more serious. It can mean the difference between life and death.

I learned a tough lesson last week, but I’m learning to listen more and talk less. How can you be brave? How can you ask for help? Better yet, how can you listen to those around you and be their advocate?

The other day, I went with some friends for an hour-and-a-half Thai massage. It was one of many I’ve received since arriving in Thailand. And to be completely honest, I was a little upset because I got an older woman who didn’t put much pressure into her motions. If I didn’t know better, I’d have thought my niece was giving the massage. The gentler she was with me the more frustrated I became.