Too often, people beg favors of others without considering the simple fact that they are in essence bumming other people's property. Their actions are much akin to intruding on someone else's family dinner and licking their chops at all the delicious food that they neither purchased nor prepared.

Connections, reputation, good will, celebrity…these are all commodities with as much tangible value as any physical property.

While charity is a worthy act, and the occasional urge to give may infect us all, it is critical to recognize the influence of self-interest. This is the essence of salesmanship. And salesmanship is the key to achievement.

Did you think it was hard work?

Hard work does not equal success. Hard work equals working hard.

Maybe you have mastered your craft. Maybe you are eternally refining your abilities. But what is your purpose?

Isn't it to be recognized and to be appreciated? Even most humbly, if only to make a living doing what you love.

But how can you ever be recognized or appreciated if you are not communicated, if you are not promoted, if you are not sold?

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