Stronger Together: How Interdependence Can Help You Thrive
By Jennifer Rodriguez
It took one group project for me to realize something—trying to do everything solo wasn’t just exhausting, it wasn’t working. I’d stayed up until 2 AM writing the entire report by myself because I didn’t trust my classmates to pull their weight. The result? I was tired, frustrated, and the project wasn’t even that great.
That experience taught me something crucial: sometimes, you need to lean on others.
What Is Interdependence?
Interdependence is the art of building supportive relationships where everyone benefits. It’s about knowing when to ask for help, when to offer it, and how to create a network of people who push each other to succeed.
Dr. Rachel Lin, an educator and teen development expert, explains: “Teens who build strong support systems are more likely to stay engaged, handle stress better, and achieve their goals. Interdependence is a life skill that pays off in school, relationships, and future careers.”
Why Interdependence Matters (Even for the Lone Wolves)
A lot of us pride ourselves on being independent. And that’s great! But being independent doesn’t mean you have to do everything alone.
Think about it—your favorite musicians, athletes, and creators all have teams. Even superheroes have sidekicks. No one gets to the top by themselves.
Layla, 16, found that leaning on her friends helped her succeed. “I used to stress over tests by myself, but when I started studying with friends, we all did better. We explained things to each other in ways that made sense.”
How to Build Supportive Relationships
1. Choose Your Circle Wisely
Surround yourself with people who inspire and uplift you. Look for friends, classmates, and mentors who share your goals and values.
2. Give as Much as You Take
Interdependence isn’t just about asking for help—it’s about offering it. Share your strengths. If you’re great at math, help a friend who struggles. You never know when you’ll need their expertise in return.
3. Ask for Help (Without Feeling Weird About It)
Reaching out doesn’t make you weak—it makes you smart. If you’re struggling with a project or need advice, ask. Teachers, peers, and even older students can be great resources.
4. Collaborate, Don’t Compete
School can feel competitive, but the truth is, collaboration often leads to better results. Work with your peers, not against them. When one person wins, the whole group benefits.
The Ripple Effect
When you start building stronger relationships, the benefits go beyond just school. Friendships deepen, family dynamics improve, and you become more comfortable stepping into leadership roles.
DeAndre, 17, started collaborating with classmates on science projects. “At first, I thought working alone meant I’d do better. But once I teamed up with people who were passionate, our projects stood out. Now I seek out group work.”
Your Network Is Your Net Worth
The relationships you build now can open doors for years to come. Whether it’s a friend who becomes a business partner or a teacher who writes you a glowing recommendation, the people you connect with can shape your future.
So, if you’ve been flying solo, maybe it’s time to build your squad. Reach out, connect, and remember—you’re not in this alone.