Napoleon and the limits of DIY
It was Napoleon who said that “if you want a thing done well, do it yourself”. And we’ve all had that instance when your mother asks you to do something, then you ask so many questions while attempting to do it, that she finally sighs and remarks this exact same Napoleonic quote. (If you haven’t experienced this, you just probably never heard the last part).
Wanting to do things yourself is not necessarily a bad thing. It may be considered part of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Or even as a sign of insanity. But as they say, there is a fine line between genius and insanity. Or rather, as Seneca put it, “there is no great genius without some touch of madness”. Humor apart, we can’t all do everything on our own constantly. It is physically impossible.
And just imagine what it would be like if everyone kept what they know to themselves. Sure, it is good competition, but wouldn’t you want someone to help you? Or at least continue your legacy when you’re gone? After all, the greatest teachers, those who inspire us the most and leave their mark on us, are indeed the ones who want to transmit upon us their knowledge.
So, sometimes, you just need to let go, relax, and acknowledge that you are not intended to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. Humanity is supposed to be based on understanding and solidarity. If you can do something well on your own, just imagine how great it would be if your power was multiplied.
“Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much” – Helen Keller.
Also part of Daily Prompt: Help
