Asking for Directions

Prepare for the Interaction

Identify the Need for Directions:

• Recognise when you are lost or unsure of where to go. You can also plan ahead and look up a map if you know you'll need directions.

• Tip: If possible, check your route or destination online or with a GPS beforehand to reduce uncertainty.

Choose the Right Time to Ask:

• Pick a moment when the person you want to ask is not too busy or distracted. It’s usually best to ask when they are standing still or not in a hurry.

• Tip: If you are in a crowded area, you can look for someone who isn’t in a rush or someone who looks approachable, like a shop employee or someone sitting down.

Approach the Person Politely

Get Their Attention:

• Make sure the person notices you before you ask. You can say something simple like, “Excuse me,” or gently wave if they are looking away.

• Tip: If you are feeling anxious about speaking up, practice saying “Excuse me” or “Hello” quietly to yourself beforehand.

Introduce Yourself Briefly:

• When they acknowledge you, you can introduce yourself briefly if it helps ease the interaction. You can say something like, “Hi, I’m [Your Name], and I need some help with directions.”

• Tip: Keeping the introduction short can help ease any social anxiety.

Ask for Directions Clearly

Ask Directly and Clearly:

• Be clear about where you need to go. You can say something like, “Can you please tell me how to get to [destination]?”

• Tip: If you’re unsure how to phrase it, you can simply ask, “How do I get to [place]?” or “Where is [place]?” This keeps it simple and direct.

Be Specific:

• If possible, mention any landmarks, streets, or locations you already know. For example, “I’m looking for [place], and I know it is near [landmark].”

• Tip: If you're worried about getting overwhelmed, have a piece of paper or a note on your phone with your destination written down to help clarify your question.

Listen and Clarify If Needed

Pay Attention to the Directions:

• Listen carefully to the person giving directions. Take note of important landmarks or street names they mention.

• Tip: If you’re worried about remembering, you can write the directions down on your phone or on a piece of paper as they speak.

Clarify If You Don’t Understand:

• If you don’t understand the directions or if they’re too complicated, it’s okay to ask for clarification. You can say, “I’m sorry, could you say that again more slowly?” or “Could you repeat that part?”

• Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask for more details, like which direction to turn, how far to walk, or specific landmarks to look out for.

Thank the Person

Express Gratitude:

• After they’ve given you the directions, thank them for their help. A simple “Thank you very much” or “I really appreciate it” can go a long way.

• Tip: If you’re anxious about saying thank you, you can always practice this response in your mind or out loud before you ask.

Proceed with the Directions

Follow the Directions Step by Step:

• After receiving the directions, take your time to follow them. It’s okay to pause and check your phone or map if you need to.

• Tip: If you feel uncertain or anxious during your walk, it’s okay to stop and ask for directions again. You don’t have to continue if you’re unsure.

Stay Calm and Take Breaks:

• If you feel overwhelmed or anxious while following the directions, take a break in a safe place like a park bench or a shop. Breathe and reassess before continuing.

• Tip: If you are worried about getting lost, use a map or GPS app to track your location and confirm you’re on the right path.

Alternative Options (If Needed)

Use a GPS or Map App:

• If you don’t feel comfortable asking people for directions or you’re feeling particularly anxious, using a GPS or map app on your phone can help guide you.

• Tip: Set the app up before you start walking, so you don’t feel rushed or stressed when you need to use it.

Consider Asking for Help in Less Busy Places:

• If you find the interaction in a crowded area too overwhelming, try asking for directions in quieter spots like a library, bookshop, or coffee shop.

Additional Tips for Reducing Anxiety When Asking for Directions:

• Prepare in Advance: If you know you need to ask for directions, try to plan ahead by looking up maps or familiarising yourself with the area beforehand.

• Use Visual Aids: If words are hard to process in real-time, consider carrying a map or writing down landmarks. You can show it to the person for more clarity.

• Set a Reminder: If you’re worried about forgetting the directions, set a reminder on your phone to check your map or your notes.

• Bring a Trusted Person: If possible, ask a friend or family member to accompany you, which may reduce anxiety and make the interaction feel more comfortable.

• Be Kind to Yourself: It’s okay if you don’t get everything right or if the interaction feels difficult. You are doing your best, and it’s okay to take small steps.

Final Thoughts

By following these steps, asking for directions can become a more manageable and less stressful experience. It’s perfectly okay to take your time, ask for clarification, and use tools like maps or phones to help you along the way.