Were born to be players, not pawns.

"Mad" magazine is like one of my few formative experiences, absolutely. "Mad" magazine teaches a whole generation of people to be irreverent toward power.

One source of frustration in the workplace is the frequent mismatch between what people must do and what people can do. When what they must do exceeds their capabilities, the result is anxiety. When what they must do falls short of their capabilities, the result is boredom. But when the match is just right, the results can be glorious. This is the essence of flow.

Human beings have an innate inner drive to be autonomous, self-determined, and connected to one another. And when that drive is liberated, people achieve more and live richer lives.

When the reward is the activity itself--deepening learning, delighting customers, doing one's best--there are no shortcuts.

Anytime you're tempted to upsell someone else, stop what you're doing and upserve instead.

To sell well is to convince someone else to part with resources—not to deprive that person, but to leave him better off in the end.