Self-Reliance and Isolation

Self-reliance is part of the American Dream. We want to be independent, to call our own shots, to not have to rely on anyone. But the trap of pursuing complete autonomy is that it can easily lead to isolation. And if we become isolated from those around us who can support us and challenge us, we’re in a dangerous place.

Regardless of our position in life, or how successful we become, we still need other people in our lives–individuals who don’t have an agenda, but can speak the truth to us when we need to hear it. Being free to make our own decisions and then to enjoy (or suffer) the consequences is great. But when our desire to be self-reliant begins to breed isolation, we’ve gone too far.