Victory is much more meaningful when it comes not just from one person, but from the joint achievements of many.

I was taken by the power that savoring a simple cup of coffee can have to connect people and create community.

Beverages have to be created. And they're created by looking at what trend is in, say, the fashion industry - what color's hot right now.

We can't wait for Washington. Business leaders are going to have to galvanize their own constituencies and do everything they can to demonstrate confidence in the economy, and I think that can be contagious.

When you start a company, it's a singular focus. You have the wind at your back.

You cant build any kind of organization if youre not going to surround yourself with people who have experience and skill base beyond your own.

We need to put ourselves in the shoes of our customers. That is my new battle cry. Live and breathe Starbucks the way our customers do.