Success is lonely, but it often depends on the support, feedback, and positive collaboration we choose to have around us. Our cheerleaders and mentors can be game-changers. Every quarterback has a story of finally flourishing after moving to a better team or finding their edge while being coached by an incredible mentor. Talent is an important ingredient, but the environment and support structure behind it is just as valuable – if not more valuable.

It's far too easy to underestimate the value of support. Imagine wanting to start a business, but every time you bring it up to your partner or friends, they dismiss the idea as silly or impossible. Would be less likely or more likely to pursue it? Now, imagine having a trusted set of people who are always in your corner and not only encourage you, but also offer tangible help. Success stories like Tom Brady and Bill Belichick or Magic Johnson with the Lakers are great examples of how crucial strong partnerships can be. Even Steve Jobs had Steve Wozniak as a confidant. A good partnership is built on mutual support where both parties feel comfortable around the other to voice their ideas and feelings.

 No one achieves great things alone. Did you build the roads that take you to the client’s office? Of course not. There are countless, faceless (to you) people behind the scenes ensuring everything runs smoothly, from the front office to the warehouse. Each person plays a role in the bigger picture of a company or a city. To succeed, we must learn to connect with the wisdom that people aren’t meant to be used or taken for granted. If we want others to help us in achieving our goals, we must be willing to help them in return. In fact, part of success is in understanding the value you bring to others. Tom Brady was a football legend — but he wasn’t paid millions just to throw a ball or score points. His true value was in generating TV deals, merchandise sales and higher ticket prices for the team. People wanted to watch him throw a ball and score points, and that was worth the money. 

Every job or role provides value to someone. So, think about what value you bring to others. This answer will reveal the path to success. Relationships thrive on mutual benefit. The more value you provide, the more people will want to work with you. This doesn’t mean using people as pawns in your sneaky game. But it does mean ensuring building a relationship that us mutually beneficial. If you need someone’s help, chances are good they need yours as well. Without reciprocity, relationships can become one-sided, leaving both of you drained.

When you become valuable to others, you will naturally attract more opportunities and stronger relationships. But don’t expect people to know what you can do, or when you are available to help. Communicate! People can’t read your mind. Openness is key to setting expectations – and boundaries – early in any mutual relationship. Whether in personal or professional relationships, clarity prevents misunderstandings. And remember to say thank you. One often overlooked part of communication is showing gratitude. A simple smile or a thoughtful gesture can go a long way. People want to feel appreciated for their time and effort. Think about your relationship with your parents. They have done more for you than you can ever repay. But all really want is to see you live a happy and fulfilling life. The least you can do is say thanks and perhaps pay their advice forward to your own children.

As a disabled person and an entrepreneur, I’ve always deeply valued the people in my life who stick around to help. They make my success possible, and I try to return that positive energy out into the world. One of my guiding principles is that what you give out, you get back. So, I try to avoid falling into a negative narrative or feeling like others don’t understand me. Negativity in any form would be a poor way to pay back those who spend precious hours caring for me. A negative mindset about obstacles or challenges will hold me back.

Here are some truths about relationships that I’ve learned for everyone to keep in mind:

• We are social creatures. No one truly thrives as a lone wolf. It is crucial to receive validation and social cues from others, whether we admit it or not.
• Emotions drive us. We often think people are conniving and calculating, but most of the time, people are too busy dealing with their own lives to think about yours. Others will generally think about you only when they have to, not because they are scheming.
• A handful of people can make you amazing. A few key people can help you achieve your goals, but they won’t do all the work. That’s still up to you. Nevertheless, getting help from a psychologist, a business coach, or a mentor can take you to the next level.
• People aren’t there to be drained. While other people are surely willing to help, they also expect something in return – gratitude, money, support or maybe just reciprocity. Whatever happens, it’s important to acknowledge those who help you.
• Service is key. Zig Ziglar once said, “If you help people get what they want, they will help you get what you want.” This is one of the secret truths of the universe.
• Influence matters. Successful people always inspire others to pursue their goals. As a parent, I hope to influence my children to think beyond their life circumstances and take personal responsibility for what they want. In business, I influence my team to execute our mission. But influence is also about seeking others who can influence and inspire you.
• Professional networks are crucial for growth. Good managers are hard to come by, so when you find a great mentor or boss, hold on to them. That’s excellent advice for young people starting out on a career. A good manager can provide guidance and open doors that you might not be able to locate on your own.
• Personal influence is just as important as professional influence. You should aim to be the one to hold your friends accountable for their actions. If not you, then who?
  
  

The biggest thing to remember is that success is a team effort. The more we invest in strong, mutually beneficial relationships, the closer we will get to achieving our goals.