2. They keep heathy

Without good health, life can be miserable and no amount of success or money can make things better. Whether they're 40 or 80, the billionaires I spoke to all maintain their health by exercising regularly.

Brazilian entrepreneur Lirio Parisotto says he hits the treadmill three times a week. "My average calories burned per workout is 1,000," he tells me. "I do it whenever possible. It's harder when I'm traveling, but I always make up for the skipped days when I get back."

It was interesting to learn that many billionaires incorporate their favorite sports into their workout regimen. They claim that sports teaches you about winning and losing, both of which are essential skills in business and life. As Magna International founder Frank Stronach once told me, "In sports, you learn about character, competition and how to play fair."