Innovation is an outgrowth of initiative, and initiative - taking positive actions in a belief that your actions can make a difference - is a big part of confidence.

A great idea is not enough.

Confidence is the sweet spot between arrogance and despair-consisting of positive expectations for favorable outcomes.

If world problems feel too big to tackle, think small. Step by step. Small wins build confidence, lead the way to change.

Time is a function of impact. The longer a book of mine has been in print, the greater its impact seems to be as people absorb and digest my ideas. I am especially proud of The Change Master: Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the American Corporation, first published in 1983, because it raised questions and addressed issues at a time when so many great changes were occurring in our society, indeed throughout the world.

In the most innovative companies there is a significantly higher volume of thank yous than in companies of low innovation.

I wonder whether there has been too much emphasis on teaching women to conform, to fit into the system. Certainly that suits conservative organizations in conservative times. But now ... innovation and creativity are necessary.