“I should just be quiet”

Some jobs require more effort than skill. Delivering packages, bagging groceries, checking out customers — the tasks themselves are relatively easy. The difference is in the effort.

So do more than say a reflexive “thanks” to someone who does a thankless job. Smile...

One of the best ways to motivate some people is to manufacture a way to feel insulted, regardless of whether they're actually justified in feeling that way or not.

“Justified” is not the point. Fueling your motivation to do whatever it takes to prove that person wrong, and, more important, ...

Often the easiest way to be different is to do the things other people are unwilling to do.

So pick one thing other people won’t do. It can be simple. It can be small. Doesn’t matter. You’ll instantly be a little different from the rest of the pack. Then keep going. 

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Every day we let hesitation and uncertainty stop us from acting on our ideas. Pick one plan, one goal, or one idea. And get started. Just take one small step.

The first step is by far the hardest. Every successive step will be a lot easier.

Successful people don’t expect to be perfect, but they do think they can always be better.

So think back on your day. Think about what went well. Then think about what didn’t go as well as it could have and take ownership. Take responsibility.

Like Jimmy Spithill, skipper of America’s Cup-winning Team Oracle USA, says, “Rarely have I seen a situation where doing less than the other guy is a good strategy.”

You may not be as experienced, as well funded, as well connected, or as talented, but you can always outthink, outhu...

Yes, you get only one chance to make a first impression. 

Unfortunately, no product or service is ever perfect, and no project or initiative is perfectly planned. Work hard, do great work, and let it go. Your customers and colleagues will tell you what need...

One of the most paralyzing fears is fear of the unknown. Yet nothing ever turns out to be as hard or as scary as we think. Plus, it’s incredibly exciting to overcome a fear. 

You get that “I can’t believe I just did that!” rush, a thrill you may not have experienced for...

Sometimes people are hesitant. Sometimes they’re insecure. Sometimes they’re shy. Whatever the reason, sometimes people will ask a different question than the one they really want you to answer.

One employee might ask whether you think he should take a few college cours...