Asking for what we need? What a concept!

I heard Dr. Laura Trice speak at TED a month ago and she brought up a question that I can’t get out of my mind: Why don’t we ask for praise?

She described how difficult it is for people to expose themselves and ask for what they really need. You may need your spouse to thank you for taking the kids to school everyday and preparing dinner each night; and you may need your boss to acknowledge the work you did with the big client or you may need your friend to thank you for always being there. Making this simple request can put you on the path to greater happiness.

Take a minute to understand what you need to hear and whom you need to hear it from. Then go ask for it!