There's no better feeling in the world than being self-sufficient. Does that mean being able to pay your bills, file your taxes, fix a faucet leak, buy property, and do virtually anything else without anyone's assistance? Not quite. As great as that sounds, let's face it -- not all of us are handy or conversant with all things finance. We need other people's help for certain things about which we have little knowledge and/or would rather pay others to do for us. What's more, those of us who are parents rely on our partner to help out with the kids, among other parental duties. When I say self-sufficient, I'm talking about everyday things that require no real expertise. I've spoken to people at work who admit they don't set foot in a mall unless a friend or family member is there to help them pick out clothes. Others say they refuse to hit the gym unless they have a gym buddy with them. Still others won't buy food at a restaurant unless ...