When is helping someone too much?

Ranika Perera
Nov 2 · 2 min read
Photo Credit: Billy Pasco on Unsplash

“There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up.” — John Holmes

It is a kind deed to help others when they are in need. However you have to use some wisdom and sense when you are helping someone. Meaning that you should know when you are really helping an individual or either helping that individual accomplish a task they capable of fulfilling on their own.

Everyone has a kind heart and wants to help but you should know ‘how’ to help them. When giving a helping hand, always keep your interests in mind first. Recognize when you are crossing your boundaries and when you realize that your help is not very important if the person is able to fulfill the task independently.

Sometimes helping a person too much can make them grow dependent on you, and that’s what you want to avoid. Best strategy is to take a step back and understand if the person really needs your help or not.

Why do you want to help someone? What are you trying to achieve? Is it because you feel that you have to help the individual? Is it a matter concerning self-importance? Or to show that you are a kind person? Before attempting to help a person, understand what your goal is and this will help you to shape your behavior and actions towards the person. I know it sounds easy, but next time someone requires your help take some time to think about why you want to help out.

At times it is better to focus solely on your interests instead of extending help. Sometimes when you help someone too much, there is a tendency to blame yourself. Make sure that you do not harm anyone’s or your needs when helping people.

Before helping others, find out whether they really need help. If they do not really need any help, leave them to their own devices because they will be just fine.

Helping someone can be so heart-warming but also harmful if you are not too careful. Do not be involved in situations in helping others where you have no control. Trust your instincts, understand your goals and then help others.

Ranika Perera

Written by

MBA Graduate + Creative Writer. Inspiration and travel are important to me. I seek to empower and inspire people.

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