Deadlines have a lousy name. Call them live-lines instead. That´t what they are.

Your art is the act of taking personal responsibility, challenging the status quo, and changing people.

You can't win by being more average than average.

The combination of passion and art is what makes someone a linchpin.

Anyone who says failure is not an option has also ruled out innovation.

The biggest takeaway for anyone seeking to write is this: don't go looking for the way other authors do their work. You won't find many who are consistent enough to copy, and there are enough variations in approach that it's obvious that it's not like hitting home runs or swinging a golf club. There isn't a standard approach, there's only what works for you (and what doesn't).

The easiest way to thrive as an outlier is to avoid being one. At least among your most treasured peers. Surround yourself with people in at least as much of a hurry, at least as inquisitive, at least as focused as you are.