In my last post, I outlined Napoleon Hill's concept of the Master Mind. To continue that discussion, I want to summarize a story told in Hill's book Think and Grow Rich.

Henry Ford, founder of Ford Motor Company, sued a Chicago newspaper for libel after the publication called him an "ignorant pacifist." In the trial proceedings, the lawyers asked Ford a stream of questions, trying to make him look ignorant.

In response, Ford said, "Will you kindly tell me, why I should clutter up my mind with general knowledge, for the purpose of being able to answer questions, when I have men around me who can supply any knowledge I require?"

Ford's reply proved to everyone in the courtroom that he was an educated man. His poignant question also teaches us about the Master Mind. He knew that he didn't have to have all the answers, but rather he could rely on the knowledge of the Master Mind.

Hill writes, "Any man is educated who knows where to get knowledge when he needs it, and how to organize that knowledge into definite plans of action. Through the assistance of his "Master Mind" group, Henry Ford had at his command all the specialized knowledge he needed to enable him to become one of the wealthiest men in America. It was not essential that he have this knowledge in his own mind."

Everyone's personal and professional networks are filled with individuals with knowledge on an array of topics. By building relationships and establishing your Master Mind, you can tap into this wealth of knowledge, which will better you and your business.

At Menlo Group, we refer to our commercial real estate agents as Trusted Advisors. Business owners may not have time and energy to dedicate to a real estate strategy; that's where our team comes in.

This principle applies to accountants, lawyers, lenders and more. By surrounding yourself with trusted advisors, you will be able to reach a higher level than you could alone, and you will be able to better focus on your strengths and passions.