"If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together."
This powerful African proverb gets me all misty-eyed every time I read it. It signifies teamwork, collaboration, interdependence, and strength in numbers. It tells us we are stronger, smarter, more resilient, and generally better when we help each other, rely on each other, and learn from each other.
I have seen many investors flounder and many home-owners get into serious financial trouble because they were embarrassed to ask for advice or assistance. Why?
Why is there shame in admitting we've made a mistake? Why is there shame in admitting something is too complicated or stressful for us to do it alone? Why do we insist on pretending we are the be-all and end-all, the alpha and omega?
We aren't.
We enter this world knowing absolutely nothing beyond basic bodily functions. We spend the rest of our lives - yes, the rest of our lives - on a path of continuous growth, learning, and improvement.
Own it.
Ask for help when you need it.
We are stronger together.