In America, we seem to be fascinated with the myth of the self-made man or woman. We're constantly pointing out examples of people who supposedly "single-handedly" changed the face of the American landscape. When thinking of companies like Microsoft, Apple, Disney, Sears and Mary Kay Cosmetics, we're tempted to tie their success to the efforts of one person, whether it is Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Walt Disney, R. W. Sears or Mary Kay Ash.

Of course, on some level, we know that these individuals aren't responsible for the entire success of their organizations. However, we generally credit them with being the primary movers behind the dream. And yet, in each case, they were only half of the equation. Each of these people had early business partners that made it possible for them to ever get their dreams off the ground.

Bill Gates did not start Microsoft by himself. He had a partner named Robert Allen. The same is true for Steve Jobs, who co-founded Apple with Steve Wozniak. In the same way, Walt Disney was joined by his brother, Roy, and Richard Warren Sears had a partner too, Alvah Roebuck.

Even the legendary Mary Kay Ash had an early partner. As you may know, Mary Kay planned the launch of her revolutionary new company from her kitchen table. What you might not know is that she was joined every step of the way by her husband. In fact, when her husband tragically died just days before the launch date, Mary Kay was originally unsure whether she should continue with the plan, as he was such an essential part of the company.

And I could continue with example after example, but I think I've made my point: you shouldn't try to go it alone. Your greatest chance for success is to find a trusted ally and partner. This is the case, even if your goal is to achieve success in some pursuit that is usually considered solitary in nature, such as writing. Even in writing, partnership pays off.

It certainly paid off for Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins, the co-authors of the Left Behind series. Together, they have been able to write a series of books that has sold more than 65 million copies (and counting). The same is true for Mark Victor Hansen and Jack Canfield, who together produced the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, which has sold more than 80 million copies.

Play Second Fiddle (Part II)

Therefore, if you're currently sailing to your destiny all by yourself, it may be time to pick up a first mate. You will reach your destination much faster together. And, in some cases, you might even consider hiring a captain and being his or her first mate. Think about it. It might not be particularly glamorous to be the lesser known half of a successful duo, but it certainly pays off. After all, I really don't think that Paul Allen and Steve Wozniak are complaining each month as they make their way to the mailbox to receive their dividend checks.

In the same way, you shouldn't hesitate to hitch your wagon to someone else's star. It's better to reach the heavens in someone else's shadow than it is to burn up on the ground in your own spotlight.

I've come to this realization in my own business. I like being the Boss, the Head Honcho, the Big Cheese. Who doesn't? However, a few months ago, I made the decision to hire a CEO for DASH, Dennis Sneden. As a result, I'm no longer the person with primary responsibility for running the day-to-day operations of the company. And guess what? It's been one of the best decisions I've ever made.

I get to benefit from Dennis' incredible organizational skills. And while I'm now playing "second fiddle" in his orchestra, we're making much more beautiful music together than I could ever make alone.

Therefore, as you continue on the road to success, be on the lookout for opportunities to team up with others heading in your direction, even if it means that you might have to ride "shotgun" (or even in the backseat). It's much better to reach your destination as a passenger than it is to drive yourself around in circles.