But I have built a career at doing the hard stuff that others don’t want to spend the brain power on. I would imagine that most of you reading this are very smart and motivated people. Don’t ever let yourself think that you will never be able to learn, let’s say, rocket science. Because you can. You are stronger than anything put in front of you.

Teach yourself new skills. I would imagine that you are the type of person that wants to really be successful in life, not necessarily at your current job, but in life.

Be a lifelong learner. Being smart is not all about the letters behind your name.

It’s about

• the amount of knowledge you have;

• your ability to apply that knowledge when it’s pertinent; and

• your drive to attain more knowledge when you need it.

Always take on new challenges. Get outside of your comfort zone. I know it’s cliché, but it’s true, you really do learn from all of your business experiences, even the bad ones. Often times, especially the bad ones. I know, trust me, that it sure doesn’t feel good when you are in a bad work environment or when you screw something up and everyone is upset at you. But, there are times when you learn what to do, and sometimes you learn what NOT to do.