On the same line as taking chances, there’s one thing most people rarely do: asking. It’s often difficult to approach someone and ask them something we want or need, especially when we feel it’d be acceptable to do so. Also, knowing that there’s very little to lose if we ask.
However, there’s something holding us back. We’re afraid of being rejected, afraid of how we might look in the eyes of the receiver, or afraid of how we will be looked by others who didn’t have the balls to put together the question and ask it.
Through asking I’ve accomplished more than I’d have ever imagined: dream internships, jobs, mentorship, dates, discounts, just to mention a few. But don’t let this fool you. I’ve also hold back (been shy) and let opportunities pass because I didn’t have the balls to ask.
Richard Chan 