More than any other factor, it is the people we have to deal with that determine the quality of our work lives.

When did you feel most fulfilled? When did you impress yourself, or otherwise feel most proud of yourself?

Professional is not a label you give yourself - it's a description you hope others will apply to you.

A true professional feels no pressure to run up a client's bill, knowing that any reduction in revenues caused by being efficient will be more than recompensed by the reputation earned for being honest and trustworthy.

Your task as a leader is to help others to succeed, not to strive only for your own success. If I don't trust your motives, nothing else will matter -because my primary concern is your integrity.

Believe passionately in what you do, and never knowingly compromise your standards and values. Act like a true professional, aiming for true excellence, and the money will follow.

Professionals have to decide on which subjects they are prepared to give nagging rights