Truly visionary and successful companies have discovered that there is no conflict between the pursuit of profit and having a pursuit beyond profit.

You cannot and should not try to please everyone. Make sure that the right people like you, and it will be expected that others will not. That's how the world works.

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.

What do I have to do to earn and deserve the key relationships that are going to get me where I want to go?

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

No one can manage you if you don't give them permission to do so. But if you are interested in accomplishing as much as you are capable of, then I believe there are good reasons to grant that permission.

The noble path does win but only if you are prepared to make the investment over a long period of time.