David Lee Roth once stated “whoever said money doesn’t buy happiness, didn’t know where to shop”.
I get it … money is epic and makes life easier and – superficially – happier.
But what he didn’t say is that “there’s no amount of money that makes being miserable, worthwhile”.
Maybe it’s because he didn’t know it.
Maybe it’s because he didn’t want to admit it.
But given how he has talked about his toxic time in Van Halen, I am pretty sure he’d agree now … because while there are many benefits to independence [and ownership for that matter, but that’s a post for another day], the one that is the most valuable personally, professionally, creatively, commercially and collaboratively is the ability to be honest with your colleagues and clients.
Utterly honest.
It might not always be the most comfortable meeting – especially if you’ve been an asshole and tried to fuck them over and then beg forgiveness later – but it will always get to a stronger outcome.
After all, they say ‘honesty is the best policy’ for a reason.
Happy weekend.
