I like to collaborate with those better than me. 
My strong suit there is pulling out everything they got to give.
If it's all you, it's hard to see the greatness. 

+1 SongCraft (here and post 29 and 30) ... and Timidi:

A very excellent topic, IMHO!  Not much to add.

I've collab'd with 3 of you (who are much better than me) and its inspiring and life-changing.  It causes me to emulate your genres and vibes.  No song gets written without thinking about these 3 astonishing artists (you know who you are).

I consistently perform modest gigs (church) with others (vox, piano, guitar) ... but never for money.

Because I aim at conscience (vs. pure pop dance); I write 90% alone ... lock-and-key ... like most of you.

But, TBH, all of us collab one with another, per song-forum feedback, listening, and sharing techniques.
 
Also; you/I are probably the one that writes most of the hooks and climatic middles.

OTOH, Your story and artistry must control your song ... or it'll turn me off in due course of business.