The Power of “Make the Ask!”: Unlocking Your Potential as a Teenager

Hey there, future world changers! Ever felt like there’s an invisible force field between you and your dreams? Well, get ready to break through that barrier with one simple, yet incredibly powerful tool: asking. That’s right, we’re about to dive into the world of “Make the Ask!” – a mindset that can revolutionize your life in ways you never imagined.

Why “Make the Ask!” Matters (And Why It’s Not Just Another Boring Life Lesson)

Before you roll your eyes and think, “Great, another adult telling me what to do,” hear me out. This isn’t about following rules or fitting into some mold. It’s about unlocking your superpower – the ability to shape your world by simply opening your mouth (or typing that message) and asking for what you want.

Think about it: How many times have you wanted something – a chance, an opportunity, advice, or even just a slice of pizza – but didn’t go for it because you were too scared to ask? We’ve all been there. But here’s the kicker: most of the time, the worst thing that can happen when you ask is… drumroll, please… someone says “No.” That’s it. The world doesn’t end, you don’t spontaneously combust, and life goes on.

But what if they say “Yes!”? That’s where the magic happens.

The “Make the Ask!” Mindset: Your Swiss Army Knife for Life

Here’s the cool part: the “Make the Ask!” mindset isn’t just for one area of your life. It’s like a Swiss Army knife for your future. Whether it’s:

• Career: Landing that dream internship or part-time job
• School: Getting extra help in a subject you’re struggling with
• Relationships: Asking your crush out on a date (gulp!)
• Personal Growth: Finding a mentor to guide you
• Finances: Negotiating a better deal or asking for a raise in your part-time job

The “Make the Ask!” approach can open doors you didn’t even know existed. It’s about being proactive, taking control of your life, and not waiting for things to magically fall into your lap (spoiler alert: they usually don’t).

The Science Behind the Magic: Meet Your Brain’s Bouncer, the RAS

Okay, time for a quick brain science moment (don’t worry, it’s pretty cool). There’s this part of your brain called the Reticular Activating System (RAS). Think of it as your brain’s bouncer, deciding what information gets into your conscious mind.

Here’s where it gets interesting: when you start asking questions and focusing on what you want, your RAS goes, “Oh, this is important!” and starts letting in information and opportunities related to your goals. It’s like turning on a spotlight in a dark room – suddenly, you start seeing things that were always there but hidden in the shadows.

The Seven RAS Activators: Personal Success Accelerators

Now that we’ve met the brains’ bouncer, let’s learn how to get on its VIP list. Here are seven ways to activate your RAS and supercharge your “Make the Ask!” journey:

Visualization: Close your eyes and vividly imagine achieving your goals. The more detail, the better!

Action Step: Create a vision board or spend 5 minutes each day visualizing your dream future.

Affirmation: Use positive statements to reinforce your goals and boost your confidence.

Action Step: Write down three power statements about your goals and repeat them daily.

Asking: Keep asking questions that align with your objectives.

Action Step: Turn your goals into questions (e.g., “How can I land my dream internship this summer?”) and ask them regularly.

Positive rewrite: Edit out negative self-talk and replace it with positive language.

Action Step: Catch yourself when you’re being negative and flip the script to something positive.

Physiology: Use your body language to influence your mindset.

Action Step: Try power posing for two minutes before asking for something important.

Journaling: Write down your thoughts, goals, and progress.

Action Step: Spend 5 minutes each night jotting down your wins and your next day’s “asks.”

Neuroplasticity: Keep your brain flexible by learning new things.

Action Step: Take up a new hobby or skill that challenges you.

Real Talk: Overcoming the “What Ifs” and “But What Ifs”

Let’s be real for a second. Asking for stuff can be scary. Your brain might be throwing out all sorts of “what ifs”:

• What if they laugh at me?
• What if I look stupid?
• What if they’re too busy/important to help me?

Here’s a secret: everyone has these thoughts. Even that super-confident kid in your class who seems to have it all together. The difference is successful people feel fear and ask anyway.

Remember: the worst they can say is “no.” And guess what? You’re still alive, still awesome, and now you know to try a different approach or ask someone else.

“Make the Ask!” in Action: Real-Life Teen Success Stories

Still not convinced. Check out these real-life examples of teens who dared to ask:

1. Sarah, 16: Wanted to start a climate action club at school but was nervous about approaching the principal. She gathered her courage, made her pitch, and not only got approval but also secured funding for the club’s first project.
2. Jamal, 17: Dreamed of interning at a local tech startup but thought he was underqualified. He emailed the CEO, anyway, sharing his passion for coding. Result? A paid summer internship and a mentor who is now writing his college recommendation letter.
3. Lily, 15: Struggling with math, she was too embarrassed to ask for help. Finally, she approached her teacher after class. Now, she is acing tests and tutoring younger students.
4. Alex, 18: Wanted advice on becoming a filmmaker but thought no professional would have time for a high school student. He DM’d his favorite indie director on Instagram, and to his shock, he was invited to visit a real movie set.

The common thread? They all took a deep breath and “Made the Ask!”

Leveling Up Your Ask: Tips and Tricks for Maximum Impact

All right, you’re ready to start asking. But how do you make your ask more effective? Try these pro tips:

1. Be Specific: “Can you help me with my project?” is vague. “Could you spare 15 minutes to review my business plan draft?” is clear and actionable.
2. Do Your Homework: Before asking, research the person or situation. It shows you are serious and respect their time.
3. Offer Value: Think about how your ask might benefit the other person. Can you help them in return?
4. Timing is Everything: Choose the right moment. Asking your teacher for extra help right as the bell rings? Probably not ideal.
5. Follow-up: If you do not get an immediate response, a polite follow-up can work wonders. People are busy, and sometimes things slip through the cracks.
6. Be Gracious: Whether it is a yes or a no, always express gratitude for their time and consideration.

The Ripple Effect: How Your Asks Can Change the World

Here’s something mind-blowing to consider when you embrace the “Make the Ask!” mindset, you’re not just changing your life – you’re potentially changing the world around you. How? By inspiring others to do the same.

Imagine a school where everyone feels empowered to ask questions, seek help, and pursue their passions. Or a workplace where young employees are not afraid to pitch innovative ideas. That is the kind of “ripple effect” that your courage to ask can create.

Making Your Own Luck: The “Make the Ask!” Connection

Ever heard the phrase “You make your own luck?” Well, “Make the Ask!” mindset is one of the best ways to do just that. When you start asking for opportunities, guidance, or help, you are creating your own lucky breaks.

Think about it: that “lucky” person who always seems to be in the right place at the right time? Chances are, they are good at asking and putting themselves out there. They are not waiting for luck to find them; they’re actively creating opportunities through their willingness to ask.

By adopting a “Make the Ask!” approach, you’re positioning yourself to take advantage of opportunities others might miss. You are networking, learning, and growing in ways that can lead to unexpected and exciting possibilities. Remember, luck favors the prepared – and those who are not afraid to ask!

The Power Combo: “Make the Ask!” and Other Success Mindsets

While “Make the Ask!” is a game-changer, it becomes even more powerful when combined with other success-oriented mindsets. Let’s explore how “Make the Ask!” fits into a broader framework of personal growth:

1. Growth Mindset: Believing you can develop your abilities through effort and learning. When you combine this with “Make the Ask!,” you are not just open to growth – you’re actively seeking it out by asking for opportunities to learn and improve.
2. Build Grit: Passion and Perseverance: “Make the Ask!” fuels your grit. When you face obstacles, instead of giving up, you ask for help, advice, or alternative routes to your goal.
3. “Everything is Figureoutable:” This mindset pairs perfectly with “Make the Ask!” When you believe there is a solution to every problem, you’re more likely to ask the questions leading to those solutions.
4. Taking Full Responsibility: By asking for what you need, you are taking an active role in your life and not waiting for things to happen to you.
5. Focusing on What You Can Control: “Make the Ask!” is about taking action on the things within your control – your willingness to reach out, seek opportunities, and create connections.

Your “Make the Ask!” Challenge: 30 Days to a Bolder You

Ready to transform your life with the power of asking? Take the 30-Day “Make the Ask!” Challenge:

1. Week 1: Start small. Ask for something minor everyday (e.g., a book recommendation, or help with a homework problem).
2. Week 2: Level up. Ask for something that slightly pushes your comfort zone (e.g., feedback on a project, or an informational interview with someone in a career you are interested in).
3. Week 3: Go bigger. Make at least one “big ask” this week (e.g., apply for a competitive program, or ask for a leadership position in a club).
4. Week 4: Reflect and celebrate. Look back on your month of asking. What did you learn? What surprised you? Celebrate your courage, regardless of the outcomes.

The Art of Graceful Rejection: Turning “No” into “Not Yet”

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: rejection. It happens to everyone, and it’s not the end of the world. In fact, it’s often the beginning of something better. Here’s how to handle it like a pro:

1. Don’t Take It Personally: A “no” is not a reflection of your worth. It is just not the right fit at this moment.
2. Ask for Feedback: If appropriate, ask why the answer is no. This can provide valuable insights for your next ask.
3. Keep the Door Open: Thank them for their time and consideration. You never know when paths might cross again.
4. Learn and Adapt: Use each “no” as a learning experience. How can you refine your approach for next time?
5. Stay Persistent: Remember, “no” often means “not yet.” Keep refining your ask and trying new approaches.

Conclusion: Your Journey Begins with a Question

As you embark on your “Make the Ask!” journey, remember this: every great achievement, every amazing adventure, and every incredible opportunity often begins with a simple question. Your voice has power. Your desires matter. The simple act of asking can set into motion changes you never thought possible.

By embracing the “Make the Ask!” mindset, you are not just learning a skill – you’re adopting a powerful approach to life that aligns with other success-oriented mindsets. You are choosing to be proactive, to seek growth, and to create your own opportunities. You are making your own luck and taking control of your destiny.

So, what will you ask for today? The world is waiting for your voice. Go ahead, take a deep breath, and “Make the Ask!”

Your future self will thank you for it.

Remember, success is the mindset you take and the choices you make. By choosing to “Make the Ask!”, you’re already on the path to creating the life you dream of. Now go out there and start asking – your adventure awaits.