We have the kind of self-made-man myth, which says that super-successful people did it themselves.

Through embracing the diversity of humans beings, we will find a sure way to true happiness.

We prematurely write off people as failures. We are too much in awe of those who succeed and far too dismissive of those who fail.

It is those who are successful, in other words, who are most likely to be given the kinds of special opportunities that lead to further success. It’s the rich who get the biggest tax breaks. It’s the best students who get the best teaching and most attention. And it’s the biggest nine- and ten-year-olds who get the most coaching and practice. Success is the result of what sociologists like to call “accumulative advantage.

extreme visual clarity, tunnel vision, diminished sound, and the sense that time is slowing down. this is how the human body reacts to extreme stress.

Achievement is talent plus preparation

We need to be clear when we venerate entrepreneurs what we are venerating.They are not moral leaders. If they were moral leaders, they wouldn't be great businessmen.