Fourth: Define and measure performance.

Still, the act of writing poses a predicament for anyone who recognizes the temptations of pride and self-aggrandizement. We simultaneously desire to attract recognition and seek to avoid it. We want to engage an audience, yet we see that approbation flatters our egos and that criticism i...

• Take care of your health (physically and mentally), to ensure your mind and body are ready for growth.
• Manage your emotions in a constructive way. Unresolved anger, resentment, fear, and contempt create tremendous barriers to personal and professional progress.
• ...

Activities that are exhausting, challenging, or painful like cold showers, confronting one's fears, or working out can increase your dopamine level after you did those activities. However, too much pain is not good either and pain can be addicting as well.