Have you ever wanted to ask for something, but you were too afraid of being told no? Sometimes
it’s easier to reject yourself than to get rejected from someone else. When I was younger, even the thought of telling a waitress “This isn’t what I ordered, could I please exchange this?” Made me feel anxious and scared. Over the years, I’ve had many friends and mentors come into my life and encourage me that asking for what you need is important, and that your suggestions are valuable. Being involved with Happy Brew has also really shown me the reality of the cliche statement “just ask- what’s the worst that could happen?”
During my times a student at the University of Florida, I did a lot of volunteering with people with disabilities, especially young adults. I was enrolled in an entrepreneurship class, and my project revolved around accessible work environments for these individuals. It was all hypothetical, and I really enjoyed all of the assignments. I never thought that only a few years later, I would have a real life opportunity to ask and advocate for accessibility in the workplace.
“What if everyone went through the same door? And what if that door was automatic to make it easier to go in and out of?” I asked at a meeting one day. Usually, the accessible entrance is in the back of the building, while everyone else enters through the front. Universal design principles would state that it’s best if everyone enters through the same way. My fears were telling me that it “wasn’t that big of a deal”, but I worked up the courage to ask anyways. Of course, everyone was supportive and open to learning more about this idea, and the doors became a REALITY. Since then, my confidence in myself has continued to grow, and Happy Brew has played a huge part in that.
Now, to those reading this, I want you to ask yourself… What’s something in your life that you’re scared to ask for? Maybe it’s just for help moving your furniture, or maybe it’s an accommodation at work. What’s an idea you’re afraid to propose because you are afraid of how others might respond, even when you know it’s the right thing to do?
As a Christian, one of the verses I try to remind myself of is Galatians 1:10. “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”
It’s important that you are aware of how your ideas and suggestions could affect people- in a positive OR negative way. Sometimes, our ideas are great, and sometimes they need correction. Yet how would we know unless we ask, and get feedback? We shouldn’t live our life in fear of what other people think about us. So, keep asking. You never know when the answer will be YES, and your life as well as others lives will be changed because of your willingness to be courageous.
Sally MacKay, OTR/L
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