Research before deciding and acting-research and using what you learn from it is what separates unreasonable acts from irrational ones
Focus on the other party's interest rather than what you want to say or do
Why?-always ask why you are doing something
The corollary to "why" is also a good thing to ask-why not?
Success is a starting point, not a conclusion
Conventional "wisdom"-"it's been tried before and cannot be done"-- is often wrong
Do your homework no matter how long it takes-big ideas do not happen overnight
Pay attention to history
"Shortcuts" are usually a dead-end
Success does not happen overnight
You cannot do everything yourself
There is value in being second in line sometimes-learn from the mistakes of the one that came just ahead of you
Find your "core competency"-for example, 4OurElders' core competency--our "why"-- is serving our clients by giving them peace of mind, NOT evaluating nursing homes
Make sound promises and offer something in return
Perfect your pitch and make it BIG
Nothing motivates like achievement
Selling a cause requires more than conviction
Know your "customers" and what they really and focus on the value you bring them
Make what you are "selling" matter-from the slogan to the delivery
High expectations, shared challenges and rewards create loyalty and success
Taking big risks means getting big pushback so be ready for it and know when disagreement becomes dissent on your own team and deal with it firmly but fairly
NEVER let another define your failures or your successes
