In this episode, Claire dives into a pattern she knows all too well — the belief that she has to solve everything on her own. Sound familiar? If you’ve ever curled up in bed overwhelmed by the weight of being a one-person problem-solving machine, this episode is for you.

Claire explores the roots of this pattern, tracing it back to childhood perceptions and our culture’s celebration of rugged individualism. She talks through the moment she realized that not only could she ask for help, but she might actually want to — even if it feels wildly uncomfortable at first.

Using her signature blend of coaching insight, author empathy, and a bit of humor, Claire breaks down:

What gets in the way of asking for help

How fear narrows our options

Why it’s so hard for authors (and humans) to even imagine what help might look like

The different types of help we might need — physical, emotional, intellectual

The critical difference between interdependence and codependence

Whether you're burning out from doing it all yourself, feeling emotionally isolated, or simply wondering if there’s an easier way, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and a gentle nudge toward a more sustainable, connected writing life.

Naming your self-reliance pattern is the first step toward choosing something different.

Help can be practical or emotional — both are valid, needed, and deeply human.

Interdependence is healthy and necessary; it’s not a weakness, it’s a strength.

You don’t have to wait until you can’t to say I won’t.

Support the Show:

If you found this episode thought-provoking and helpful, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with fellow authors. Every review helps more writers discover this resource.

What’s Next?:

If this episode hit home, take a few minutes to sit with the question: “What kind of help would I want, even if I don’t technically need it?” Then, try something wild… ask for it.

Access the transcript here.

Happy Writing!