How may I help you?

There are times when we feel a need to reach out to help another. It may be someone we know or a complete stranger. The cause for reaching out may be based on assessing that the person is in distress, could use a helping hand, or may look like they are lost. There may be an entirely different reason for you reaching out. The only way to find out is to ask the person, “How may I help you?” This avoids any confusion over what you can do in this case. You may even hear from the other person that they are fine, but appreciate you offering your assistance. Here is an opportunity to step outside yourself to connect with someone else. Think about your own feelings when someone offers their help to you. They are generally feelings of appreciation, relief, and connection. Think of your own response when someone offers to assist you. Perhaps there was a time when you dismissed them with, “I can do it myself.” Would it have made a difference if you had declined politely? Our words and actions are powerful ways of communicating. Consider them when both giving and receiving help. What was your experience the last time you offered your help to someone?