The worst thing that could happen is you get a “No” and then you can move on with your life.

How many times have you given up before you even tried? To avoid the embarrassment of asking when it might have been a perfectly legitimate question.

Recent Seoul Trip

On my recent trip to Seoul, there were so many wonderful moments and connections I would have missed if I simply did not ask.

On a clear evening in Seoul, I ended up at the Han River. I saw a young lady with a rental bike, and I had really wanted to ride a bike along the Han River. So with my imperfect Korean, I simply asked where she got the bike. It turned out to be logistically challenging, so I said it’s okay and walked away.

Content that I tried, I walked about and took pictures of the Han River. A couple minutes later, that same person called out to me! She explained she had found a bike I could rent using an app that tourists/foreigners could download. Honestly, I was too surprised to register a proper reaction and proceeded to follow her directions, and I was able to get on the bike!

It turned out to be one the highlights of my trip. Imagine me, just happily cruising down the Han River on an e-bike. Cool wind on my face and a ridiculous smile as I took in the entire scenery around me. Simply because I asked. Really, the view was incredible and something I would not have been able to do otherwise.

So Ask

1. For that raise or job you feel you deserve.

2. The person out you like. (Once is enough here)

3. For a seat at the table when you don’t have a reservation.

4. For a discount on something ridiculous.

5. For good things to happen for you.

Because you just might get it. And if you get ignored or get a no, it’s practically the same result as if you had never even tried.

My work

Yoojin Nam LMFT is the author of Thinking to Feel. He has been providing psychotherapy for 7 years and is licensed to practice in CA & TX.

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Disclaimer: These posts are not a replacement for therapy. The information contained within is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be therapeutic advice.