Interdependence vs. Independence

Happy Interdependence Day! I know tomorrow is Independence Day, but I think this is what we should really be celebrating. The 13 colonies didn’t win freedom by standing alone—they united to defeat a common enemy and strive for a more perfect union.

As humans, we are not built for independence. A Harvard longitudinal study, which has tracked individuals since 1938, found that the greatest predictor of longevity and happiness is strong relationships (source). In other words: interdependence.

Too often, companies attribute success to a single founder. But truly great companies rarely stand on one person’s shoulders. Research shows that startups with more than one founder are more likely to succeed (source).

Technically, b3 Remarkable has a solo founder—but that’s true only for tax purposes. The company exists because of the unwavering support of my wife, Michelle; our children, Jay and Faith; and our son-in-law, Jeremy.

It’s been guided by my executive coach, Steve, and encouraged by my good friend, Duane. It was launched with the trust of a former student who took a leap of faith. And it’s been shaped, strengthened, and sustained by countless others along the way.

If we took a closer look at any Remarkable company, country, or leader, we’d see the same truth repeated: success is rooted in interdependence, not independence.

So this July 4, take a moment to reflect and reach out to thank the Remarkable people who have helped shape your journey toward longevity, joy, and meaning.