One of the most important skills you can learn is how to ask.

Learning how to ask expands your opportunities. It shows interest, initiative, and ambition. It is a moment where you test a perceived boundary.

Now, let's dive in.

Reason #1: Asking Expands Your Opportunities

Others do not know what you want - unless you ask for it.

At work or in a volunteer position, if you want more responsibility or to learn a specific skill, try asking for it directly. I've asked for a promotion several times, sometimes it works out, and sometimes it doesn't. The worst that can happen is they say "no".

Reason #2: It Shows Interest, Initiative, And Ambition

Those that seek to improve themselves stand out.

What do you think of the person who has stayed the same since you saw them 5 years ago? How about a person who has leaped forward in 5 years? The growth-minded person has asked to improve, and the stagnant person has asked for nothing.

Reason #3: It Is A Moment To Test A Perceived Boundary

What you have asked for and what you can ask for are two separate things.

Your frame of reference determines what you perceive as risk. If it is "risky" to ask for a promotion you will be less likely to do it. Self-awareness of personal bias will overcome this tendency.

Now, go and begin asking more for yourself!

You will be surprised by what opportunities you receive.