NO SHAME IN ASKING.

A public idea

Nobody should feel stupid, weak or embarrassed for asking for help.

Not knowing is human. Asking is how we move forward.

Why this matters

The problem

We've all done it.

Pretended we understood.

Nodded instead of asking someone to explain it again.

Put off asking for help because we thought we should already know.

Stayed quiet because we didn't want to look stupid, difficult or weak.

Sometimes that embarrassment costs us five minutes.

Sometimes it costs us far more.

There is no shame in asking.

Say it plainly

Some questions should not feel hard to say.

I don't understand this.

No shame in asking.

Can you show me again?

No shame in asking.

I think I've made a mistake.

No shame in asking.

I need some help.

No shame in asking.

I can't afford that.

No shame in asking.

I'm not coping.

No shame in asking.

I don't know what to do next.

No shame in asking.

What we believe

Asking is not failure.

Asking does not make you stupid.

Needing something explained twice does not make you difficult.

Admitting you are struggling does not make you weak.

Saying "I don't know" is not failure.

Sometimes the bravest and most sensible thing you can do is ask.

There is no shame in asking.

No Shame in Asking places

A sign that questions are welcome here.

We're exploring a simple idea: a small sign in a window that says nobody will be made to feel stupid for asking a question or needing something explained again.

Businesses, community organisations, libraries, schools and other places may eventually be able to publicly support this principle.

For now, it is a visible reminder that needing help is normal.

We're a

NO SHAME
IN ASKING.

place

You won't be made to feel stupid for asking.

Support the idea

If this makes sense to you, say so.

Share the phrase. Use it when someone apologises for asking. Put your hand up for the early supporter list if you would like to hear what happens next.

Your details will only be used for No Shame in Asking, never unrelated marketing. Read the privacy information.