My husband and I recently snuck away for a few days for a much-anticipated childless vacation. While I adore my kids, the prospect of four days of uninterrupted adult-only time was thrilling.
As our final day approached, we were determined to make the most of it. We started the morning with a quiet breakfast and then set off for a leisurely walk around the property. Early on the walk, I became mesmerized by two gentlemen chopping coconuts nearby. Fascinated, I turned to watch, forgetting to pay attention to where I was stepping. Within moments, I misjudged the curb, felt my ankle twist, and collapsed to the ground, feeling an unsettling snapping sensation.
The result? A sprained ankle, a bruised ego, and the humbling experience of relying on a wheelchair to get around for the rest of the trip. I pride myself on my independence—it’s practically part of my DNA as an Italian woman raised to handle things on my own. Yet there I was, navigating this unexpected situation with my husband’s help—whether fetching ice packs, assisting with logistics, or simply getting me where I needed to go.
As I sat icing my ankle, frustration mixed with reflection. I realized that, once again, life was teaching me a lesson: to slow down and allow others to step in when I can’t do it all myself. Here’s what I learned from my unexpected tumble:
Independence is admirable, but interdependence is essential. Being self-sufficient is a great strength, but learning to rely on others when needed is just as important. No one gets through life alone. I support far too many leaders with a “do it all myself” mentality, and I’ve seen how it burns people out and limits their effectiveness. Success comes from leveraging the strengths of others. This experience reminded me of the power of interdependence.
Life has a way of forcing you to pause. Sometimes, we get so caught up in our routines and ambitions that we forget to slow down. When we don’t take the time ourselves, life often finds a way to remind us. I’ve written before about my efforts to practice slowing down this year, but when I hurt my ankle, it was no longer optional. I had to stop, sit, and re-center physically and mentally. It was an unexpected but needed moment to reflect.
Grace in accepting help is a strength. I’ll admit I had to grit my teeth for the first few minutes of relying on the wheelchair. After getting a bit too sassy, my husband reminded me (politely) to get over myself and accept the help I needed. This was an important reminder that asking for help—or simply accepting it—is not a weakness. It’s an act of humility and a chance to let others show their care and support.
As I reflect on that trip, I’ve come to see my sprained ankle not just as an accident but as a well-timed reminder. Life’s curveballs often hold hidden messages, and this one was clear: It’s okay to let others step in when you stumble. Independence is a wonderful trait, but allowing people to support you deepens connections and makes life’s challenges a little lighter.
So, the next time life forces you to pause, embrace it. You might discover a lesson worth learning.
