One of the most important foundations that you can ever have in your life is knowledge.

No matter how stormy the seas get, if you have the necessary knowledge, you’ll be able to get through it. But where do you get that knowledge from?

The answer is simple. You get it from people.

That’s why I always say that you don’t become successful alone.

The books that you read about success were written by individuals who have been there before, and done that. They were written by inspirational people who wanted to share their stories.

However, knowledge isn’t just found inside the pages of books. Knowledge is everywhere if you are willing to be open to it. You don’t have to always listen to famous people to know how to become successful. Sometimes you can find the best wisdom right next to you.

Ask your parents, your close friends, your garbage truck driver, your mailman, or literally anyone – they all have a story to tell. Stories of failure, stories of success, and stories that will teach you so many invaluable lessons about life, will always bring you greatness.

Take time to talk to these people. You will find that they have already traveled the path that you are now on. That’s the beauty of the shared human experience. We are never alone in our struggles. What you are going through today, someone else has already gone through before or they are going through it currently too. Our lives may be unique but there is always a thread of commonality running through them.

Imagine that you want to go on a hike. Wouldn’t it be much wiser to ask someone who’s already done the hike for the best possible route, when the best time to go is, and what to avoid on the way?

By talking to those who have walked down that path before, you start your journey well prepared. So, when you face obstacles, you don’t get easily disheartened. And most of the time, you can even avoid these obstacles altogether, and get to your destination sooner.

Independence is a great trait to have. But we also have to accept that we live in a complex interconnected society. And ever since the beginning of our evolution, humans have relied on each other to survive. So don’t be afraid to take inspiration or advice from others. Asking for help doesn’t make you any less capable. To learn from others’ mistakes is in fact the smarter thing to do.

People need people. That’s the truth of our existence (Or at least one of the truths). And the sooner you are willing to acknowledge that you need others to grow, the sooner you’ll reach the top.