When we began Starbucks, what I wanted to try to do was to create a set of values, guiding principles, and culture.

Early on I realized that I had to hire people smarter and more qualified than I was in a number of different fields, and I had to let go of a lot of decision-making. I can't tell you how hard that is. But if you've imprinted your values on the people around you, you can dare to trust them to make the right moves.

I think the most important thing that I think everyone in America must have is belief that wherever they live, whatever station they have in life, that the American dream is alive and well. I think the fracturing of trust and confidence is in the American dream.

Don't buy preground coffee.

Starbucks represents something beyond a cup of coffee.

Business leaders cannot be bystanders.

Everyone starts strong. Success comes to those with unwavering commitment to be at the end.