It seems we've lost the ability to simply ask. Not just politely, but the very act of seeking something directly. In a world increasingly driven by automation and AI, where so much happens automatically, for better or worse, we often neglect to express our needs, maybe due to hesitation, fear, or complacency. Many young people struggle with even the most basic requests — whether it’s customising an order at a counter, making a reservation, or asking for directions. Smartphones allow us to handle nearly any task without speaking to a single person, hence amplifying anxiety during real-life interactions. For instance, I recently took Amber for a quick adjustment to her braces (a wire was poking into her gum). I asked her to speak to the dentist despite not having a booking. When she arrived, she saw a sign: "No appointment walk-ins only after 2pm." She called me, saying she would need to return later. I suggested she explain to the receptionist that it was just a minor proc