Think Big and Kick Ass in Business and Life

1. Think Big and Never Give Up

"No matter what you do, think big."

Dream big. Thinking big is the driving force behind all great achievements. It's not just for those with money, connections, or intelligence - anyone can think big. Set ambitious goals and mold yourself into the person who can accomplish them.

Persist relentlessly. Expect setbacks and obstacles, but never quit. Learn from failures and use them as stepping stones to success. Develop a thick skin against criticism and rejection. Remember, persistence is key to overcoming challenges and achieving your dreams.

• Visualize success
• Set audacious goals
• Develop resilience
• Learn from failures
• Ignore naysayers

2. Passion is the Key to Success

"You have to love what you do or you are never going to be successful no matter what you do in life."

Find your passion. Discover what truly excites and motivates you. When you love what you do, work becomes enjoyable and you naturally put in the extra effort required for success. Passion fuels perseverance through tough times and gives you the energy to overcome obstacles.

Channel your enthusiasm. Use your passion to drive innovation and excellence in your field. It will set you apart from others who are just going through the motions. Passionate people are more likely to think creatively, take risks, and inspire others - all crucial elements for success.

• Identify your interests and strengths
• Align your career with your passions
• Use enthusiasm to fuel hard work
• Inspire others with your dedication
• Continuously learn and grow in your field

3. Trust Your Instincts and Create Your Own Luck

"The harder I work, the luckier I get."

Develop your intuition. Trust your gut feelings, especially in business decisions. Your instincts are often based on subconscious processing of information and past experiences. While it's important to gather facts, don't ignore your intuitive sense about people and opportunities.

Make your own luck. Luck isn't just chance - it's a combination of preparation and opportunity. Work hard, stay alert for opportunities, and be ready to act when they arise. The more you put yourself out there and take calculated risks, the more "lucky" breaks you'll encounter.

• Practice listening to your inner voice
• Gather information, then trust your judgment
• Stay prepared for opportunities
• Network and create connections
• Take action when opportunities present themselves

4. Focus on Your Goals and Maintain Momentum

"If you stop, it stops."

Stay laser-focused. Concentrate on your objectives and avoid distractions. Success requires unwavering attention to your goals. Develop the ability to prioritize tasks and say no to activities that don't align with your primary objectives.

Keep the momentum going. Once you start building success, don't let up. Momentum is a powerful force that can propel you to greater heights. Continually set new, higher goals to keep yourself motivated and moving forward. Remember, it's easier to maintain momentum than to regain it after stopping.

• Set clear, specific goals
• Eliminate distractions
• Prioritize tasks effectively
• Continuously challenge yourself
• Celebrate small wins to maintain motivation

5. Learn from Setbacks and Always Get Even

"When somebody screws you, screw them back in spades."

Turn setbacks into comebacks. View failures and setbacks as learning opportunities. Analyze what went wrong, adapt your approach, and come back stronger. Resilience is a key trait of successful people.

Defend your reputation. Don't let others take advantage of you. When someone wrongs you, stand up for yourself and make it clear that such behavior won't be tolerated. This doesn't mean being vengeful, but rather assertive in protecting your interests and reputation.

• Analyze failures objectively
• Adapt strategies based on lessons learned
• Develop mental toughness
• Stand up for yourself when wronged
• Cultivate a reputation for fairness and strength

6. Build a Strong Team and Value Loyalty

"I value loyalty above everything else—more than brains, more than drive, and more than energy."

Hire wisely. Surround yourself with talented, loyal people who share your vision. Look for individuals who are not just skilled, but also have integrity and a strong work ethic. A great team can multiply your effectiveness and help turn your big ideas into reality.

Foster loyalty. Reward those who stand by you through thick and thin. Loyal team members are invaluable, especially during challenging times. Create a culture of mutual respect and support within your organization.

• Prioritize character in hiring decisions
• Invest in developing your team
• Recognize and reward loyalty
• Lead by example
• Create a positive work environment

7. Protect Your Assets with Prenuptial Agreements

"Always have a prenuptial agreement."

Safeguard your wealth. While it may seem unromantic, prenuptial agreements are crucial for protecting your assets, especially if you've worked hard to build substantial wealth. They provide clarity and certainty in case of a divorce, potentially saving you from financial ruin.

Be realistic about relationships. Understand that even the strongest relationships can face challenges. A prenup isn't about lack of trust, but rather a pragmatic approach to protecting both parties' interests. It can actually reduce conflict by setting clear expectations from the start.

• Discuss finances openly with your partner
• Consult with a lawyer to draft a fair agreement
• Consider videotaping the signing for added protection
• Review and update the agreement periodically
• Remember: it's a form of insurance, not a lack of faith

8. Negotiate Fiercely and Use Leverage

"To be super successful you have to use leverage to extract top dollar for what you do."

Master the art of negotiation. Develop strong negotiation skills to ensure you get the best deals possible. This includes knowing your worth, understanding the other party's motivations, and being willing to walk away if necessary.

Use leverage strategically. Identify and capitalize on your unique strengths or advantages in any situation. This could be your expertise, connections, or financial position. Leverage allows you to maximize your gains and minimize risks.

• Research thoroughly before negotiations
• Practice assertive communication
• Identify your unique value proposition
• Be willing to walk away from bad deals
• Look for win-win solutions when possible

9. Embrace Challenges and Take Calculated Risks

"I love getting even."

Seek out challenges. Don't shy away from difficult situations or problems. Embracing challenges helps you grow, learn, and stand out from the competition. The most successful people are those who tackle big problems and find innovative solutions.

Take smart risks. Calculated risk-taking is essential for achieving big success. Analyze potential risks and rewards, trust your instincts, and be willing to step out of your comfort zone. Remember, playing it safe rarely leads to extraordinary results.

• View problems as opportunities
• Develop problem-solving skills
• Assess risks thoroughly
• Trust your judgment
• Learn from both successes and failures

10. Brand Yourself and Go First Class

"Everything you do in life, do with attitude."

Develop a strong personal brand. Your reputation and image are crucial assets. Consistently present yourself in a way that aligns with your goals and values. A strong personal brand can open doors and create opportunities.

Project success. Dress well, speak confidently, and surround yourself with quality. Going "first class" in your appearance and demeanor can influence how others perceive and treat you. It also boosts your own confidence and mindset.

• Define your unique value proposition
• Consistently communicate your brand
• Invest in your appearance and environment
• Network strategically
• Deliver quality in everything you do

Last updated: January 24, 2025