The essence of profound insight is simplicity.

Discipline is consistency of action.

Not every financial company toppled during the 2008 crisis, and some seized the opportunity to take advantage of weaker competitors in the midst of the tumult.

Get keep right people.

Leaders who led their organizations quietly and humbly, were much more effective than flashy, charismatic high profile leaders.

Be rigorous about your HR decisions. There is a difference between rigorous and ruthless.

Throw leaders into an extreme environment, and it will separate the stark differences between greatness and mediocrity.