When someone is going through a tough time, accepting help can feel surprisingly hard. Even when they need support, they may worry about being a burden, taking too much, or inconveniencing others.
The way help is offered can make a big difference. Certain phrases lower the emotional barrier and make it easier for someone to say yes without guilt or discomfort.
Here are a couple of simple language shifts you can try.
Use “I’m already doing it language”
Help often feels lighter when it doesn’t sound like a favour. Framing support as something you are already doing makes it feel natural and easy to accept. Here’s what helps:
“I’m heading to the shops anyway. I’ll grab bread and milk for you while I’m there.”
“I’m putting my bins out. I’ll roll yours down too.”
“I’m cooking pasta tonight. I’ll make double and drop some over.”
These kinds of everyday offers remove pressure. They make help feel woven into normal life, rather than something extra that needs to be repaid or acknowledged.
Use “You’d be doing me a favour” language
Sometimes people hesitate to accept help because they don’t want to feel like a burden. Flipping the script can help. When it sounds like they are helping you out, the dynamic shifts and dignity stays intact. Here’s what helps:
“I baked too much cake. You’d be doing me a favour by taking some.”
“I bought extra groceries and don’t want them to go to waste. Can you use them?”
“My kid is driving me nuts. Can yours come over for a playdate?”
This kind of language makes support feel mutual rather than one sided. It creates connection, not obligation.
Small changes in wording can make a big difference. When help feels easy to accept, people are far more likely to say yes and get the support they need. 💙
