I grew up hearing the phrase, “The tougher you are on yourself, the easier life will be on you.” I never really understood it until I was an adult. To me, it means that the harder you are on yourself– in your education, your work ethic, personal values, commitments to friends and family– the easier all these things will treat you in return. Apply this principal anywhere in your life and remember it because it’s more true than you will ever know.

Two things in my life have prompted this article today and it carries a dual message. First, a message for young people who are just embarking on their careers or might even still be in school getting ready to graduate. Second, a message for business leaders and owners who are suffering like everyone else. (more…)