A clear request lets another person understand what you need and decide what they can offer. It also helps protect you from the extra work of managing an unclear promise. You can ask without apologizing for having limits.
How to use this page
Select a nonclinical task or a request for information. Draft a message or rehearse with a supportive person. Do not send anything until the wording and recipient feel appropriate.
Specify the request
Include the task, timing, and endpoint: "Could you make two calls to ask about accessible transport and send me the options by Tuesday?" State what would count as complete. Share only information the helper actually needs and has permission to receive.
Check capacity and ownership
Ask whether the person can manage the task, including the follow-up. If they offer a smaller action, decide whether it still helps. Avoid assuming an agreement from silence. Confirm who will tell whom if the arrangement changes.
Make a fallback visible
If the person cannot help, consider another contact, a different task, or a service inquiry. You do not have to keep making the same request to an unreliable person. If essential care is at risk, seek appropriate professional help rather than relying on an unconfirmed favor.
Reflection prompts
Use these questions in conversation, on paper, or in the downloaded PDF. You may adapt or skip a prompt.
- My request, how we will confirm it, and my fallback