Can't rely on family and friends

It may sound counterintuitive, but in a very important sense, one can seldom rely on friends and family today for career or business purposes.

That's because career management or business development are so technical and require specialized knowledge. For example, would you rely on a friend or relative if you had a tooth ache? More likely, you would go to a professionally trained dentist.

Since there so many challenges in today's competitive economy, it seems strategic, therefore, to build a network of experts, guides, teachers and trainers to help one achieve professional or business goals.

(Of course, one should still rely on, and show appreciation for, close friends and family in the case of sudden catastrophes or moments of deep emotional distress).