Welcome to the Week….The Value of Asking for Help

In our fast-paced lives, where self-reliance is often celebrated, the simple act of asking for help can be undervalued or create fear of stigmatization; from the oldest and most experienced, to newly minted leaders. With this openness to vulnerability comes some of the greatest opportunity.

In the restaurant industry, where teamwork and collaboration are essential—the ability to ask for help can transform careers and businesses.

The Inspiring Turnaround of Eleven Madison Park

In the culinary world, the story of Eleven Madison Park in New York City exemplifies the power of seeking assistance. The restaurant was already doing well, but when Chef Daniel Humm and his business partner, Will Guidara, bought it from their mentor, they wanted to elevate it from a one-Michelin-star establishment to a three-star icon. Despite their expertise, they knew they couldn't do it alone.

They asked for help in every direction—from consultants in the service industry to experts in food supply chains, even involving their own staff in strategy meetings. This level of collaboration led to a complete overhaul of the menu, service style, and branding.

Result? Eleven Madison Park earned three Michelin stars and was ranked the best restaurant in the world in 2017. By asking for help, Humm and Guidara didn't just improve; they reached heights they hadn't imagined possible.

How I Asked for Help to Transform a Company

The pandemic for many companies caused significant disruption over the course of multiple years. From supply chain to labor disruptions to inflation and people's health the amount of fallout when truly looking back on multiple years was astounding. At Fitlife Foods , like many companies, we were far from immune to the struggles and did our best to leverage this into new opportunity.

This past week, the Tampa Bay Business Journal dove into how our deal with the Patel family came to be and how their past commitment to elevating the health and wellness of communities became an ideal partnership.

Fitlife Foods Partnership Article from the Tampa Bay Business Journal - September 15, 2023

The Five Takeaways for Business and Life

1. Recognize the Gap: The first step is acknowledging that you need help, just as Humm and Guidara did at Eleven Madison Park and how I did with the Patel Family. This is not an admission of defeat but a strategic move to go from good to great.
2. Choose Wisely: Both stories highlight the importance of seeking help and choosing wisely. Whether it's a business consultant, seasoned coach, partners, or investors, align yourself with individuals who have a proven track record and align with your values.
3. Collaborate Actively: Asking for help isn’t a passive act. It’s an invitation for active collaboration, much like what occurred at Eleven Madison Park when staff at all levels contributed ideas.
4. Be Open to Transformation: Sometimes asking for help leads to unforeseen, yet highly beneficial changes. Be prepared for the journey it can take you on, and be willing to adapt and implement new strategies or techniques.
5. Celebrate Collective Success: When you ask for help and see transformative results, ensure that credit is shared. This not only boosts team morale but also fosters a culture of openness and mutual aid.

Supportive collaborations can unlock unprecedented levels of success. As you move through your week, take a moment to reflect: Where can I ask for help in my life, career, family, etc. ?

Recognizing where you need assistance and taking the action to ask for it (which is a real test of vulnerability) can be a game-changer. Whether you’re in a new or existing business, moving from one stage to another throughout your career or need a boost personally, never underestimate the transformative power of seeking help. It could be the difference between stagnation and unparalleled success.

Feed Your Journey,

David

Tampa Bay Business Journal