Economists say the inability to delay gratification is a primary predictor of economic failure in life.

Be clear about your goal but be flexible about the process of achieving it.

One of the marks of excellent people is that they never compare themselves with others. They only compare themselves with themselves and with their past accomplishments and future potential.

By acting in a positive, pleasant and optimistic way, you become a positive, optimistic and enjoyable person.

Your solution for a customer has to be either amazingly valuable to someone who will pay an enormous amount of money for it or has to be valuable to an enormous number of people who pay a small amount. And also the person you're talking to-especially if you want to raise capital or raise support-has to personally say, "I want that. I like that. That sounds really great. I want that for myself."

Commit yourself to lifelong learning. The most valuable asset you'll ever have is your mind and what you put into it.

Clarity is essential. Knowing exactly what you want builds your self-confidence immeasurably.