Listening, not imitation, may be the sincerest form of flattery. . . . If you want to influence someone, listen to what he says. . . . When he finishes talking, ask him about any points that you do not understand."

"An individual's self-concept is the core of his personality. It affects every aspect of human behavior: the ability to learn, the capacity to grow and change . . . . A strong, positive self-image is the best possible preparation for success in life."

Trust your hunches. . . . Hunches are usually based on facts filed away just below the conscious level. Warning! Do not confuse your hunches with wishful thinking. This is the road to disaster.

"Accept that all of us can be hurt, that all of us can -- and surely will at times -- fail. I think we should follow a simple rule: if we can take the worst, take the risk."

"If Shakespeare had had to go on an author tour to promote Romeo and Juliet, he never would have written Macbeth."