The way management treats their associates is exactly how the associates will then treat the customers.

After a lifetime of swimming upstream, I am convinced that one of the real secrets to Wal-mart's phenomenal success has been that very tendency.

Focus on something the customer wants, and then deliver it.

If you want a successful business, your people must feel that you are working for them - not that they are working for you.

The key to success is to get out into the store and listen to what the associates have to say. It's terribly important for everyone to get involved. Our best ideas come from clerks and stockboys.

Control your expenses better than your competition. This is where you can always find the competitive advantage.

Celebrate your successes. Find some humor in your failures.