Sometimes we feel weird leaning on others, especially if:

• you have not been in touch for awhile
• you can't tell if they're a friend or acquaintance
• you feel bad asking for help
• you usually pay that person / they pay you
• (e.g., accountant, former boss, former client turned friend, etc.)
• you are independent

As I took a new job, negotiated an exit from my current role and moved to a new city, my (old & new) friends have been really supportive... Hearing endless work drama, salary & equity particulars and my pros/cons lists, they (seemingly) never tired of talking through my situation.

To lean on my support system, I tried the following:
1) Spread the love

If you need a diversity of opinions, call multiple folks:- parents - friends- old bosses - mentors- relatives - other people you look up to

2) Set limits

"Hey, can I get your take on your this situation? let me know how much time you have to talk?" or "Is this a bad time"

3) Do your own work

Don't endlessly repeat yourself - make sure you advance your progress before updating your network. Make sure next steps happen before you go back to that person.

4) Keep people in the loop

One of the worst things is when someone gives you advice or help and you never speak to them again about it. Seems ungrateful