Help becomes empowering when it transfers knowledge alongside assistance.

There is help that solves the problem and help that also leaves you able to solve it next time. The first is faster and often what is needed. The second costs more in the moment and changes what the person can do afterwards, which is why it is worth choosing whenever the situation allows it.

When you help someone, ask whether to do it for them or alongside them. And when you are receiving help, ask to be shown rather than just rescued, at least sometimes. It is slower, and it converts a single favour into something you keep.