Principles of the self
- Integrity is priceless, even when expensive. Betrayal—of others or yourself—costs far more.
- Form opinions and test them against the sharpest counterpoints. Survive the crucible or abandon your stance.
- Do not seek approval; seek conviction. Plant your flag and march.
- Memorize words that move you. They will rescue you in silence and inspire in noise.
- Be specific. Precision slices through confusion.
- Separate creator from editor. First, let your thoughts pour out raw. Then, refine them into brilliance.
- Nostalgia will inevitably gild the present. Savor the now while you inhabit it.
- Don’t “network”—befriend. Sincerity builds bridges ambition cannot.
- The most valuable insights often reside in the obscure. Seek the unorthodox and the antique.
- Seek people who energize you. Cling to them; they are rare and vital.
- Aim absurdly high. Mediocrity is gravity; ambition, the force that defies it.
- To cram vitality into years, cram effort into days. Make every moment count. As my wife once said, you can’t half ass your life.
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