Great business leaders consistently say that striving to do your very best is a fundamental requirement for success. Clearly, planning and then delivering are critical. But what kind of plan is required?

It's critical for us as leaders to think about the impact of simply not paying attention to the details.

The good news is that attitudes are developed and therefore can be changed, developed further, or improved.

When it comes to difficult conversations the challenge is not only being willing to engage in them, but to make them constructive - an experience that builds up rather than tears down.

The biggest challenge each of us has is the lightning pace of change going on. As you give up control of what was important yesterday you gain control of what is important today. When you gain control of that which is important today, you become a star.

Let's face it, when everyone agrees on the actions, plans, desired outcomes, or processes, achieving goals is fairly straightforward. When there are differences in opinions and strongly held ideas or beliefs, the process can become fraught with emotions.

"I've been totally ignoring some of the most important areas of my life!" "All I have been setting are business goals. Man, I have really been missing out!"

A successful organization is one where all the parts are working together (are in alignment). These organizations are innovative, customer responsive, and prevent fires.

This is the biggest transformation of communication with consumers in our lifetime, so to not learn how to participate in those channels is outrageous. To stand on the sidelines is not an option.

I believe that motivation and optimism are two ingredients that will assure success.The person who says "I can't" and the person who says "I can" are usually both right.