Too often in life, we fall into the trap of thinking that people need to be saved or rescued. It’s a noble sentiment, but it overlooks a fundamental truth – real change, lasting change, comes from within.
Through my journey of helping others, I’ve learned an invaluable lesson: people don’t necessarily need a hero; they need to discover their own power and learn how to harness it.
The Imbalance of Constant Rescue
In my journey of aiding others, there was an enlightening revelation that reshaped my understanding. While the act of rescuing someone might feel immediately gratifying, it often masks a deeper imbalance. Constantly stepping in to save others can inadvertently create a cycle of dependency, one where the rescued remains in a perpetual state of needing help, and the rescuer, in a perpetual state of giving.
This cycle, though well-intentioned, can have unintended consequences. When we consistently swoop in to solve problems for others, we might be subtly implying that they lack the capability to solve their own.
It’s akin to saying, “You can’t do this, so I’ll do it for you.” This message, however subtle, can erode a person’s self-confidence and belief in their own abilities. It can foster a mindset where challenges are met not with self-reliance and resourcefulness, but with a waiting hand.