Instilling a sense of self-discipline and focus when the kids are younger makes it so much easier by the time they get into high school.

Real self-esteem has to be earned. I also believe in virtuous circles, like, nothing is fun until you are good at it. It is great if you can instill in children the ability to not give up, to have a work ethic.

I do play tennis, but I don't really like competition. I'm supposed to be so intense, but I hate competition.

I once won a second prize in a history concert. My parents came to the ceremony. Somebody else had won the prize for best all-around student. Afterwards my father said to me, 'Never, ever disgrace me like that again.' When I tell my Western friends, they are aghast. But I adore my father. It didn't knock my self-esteem at all.

Everything I've ever done that's valuable is something I was afraid to try.

But just because you love something, I added to myself, doesn't mean you'll ever be great. Not if you don't work. Most people stink at the things they love.

Don't assume your child is weak. If you, the parent, assume that they can't take anymore, what kind of signal are you sending them?