“​Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.”

—Colin Powell. 

“Surround yourself with people who take their work seriously, but not themselves, those who work hard and play hard.”

—Colin Powell. 

“If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you develop the habit in little matters. Excellence is not an exception, it is a prevailing attitude.”

—Colin Powell.

Never receive counsel from unproductive people. Never discuss your problems
with someone incapable of contributing to the solution, because those who
never succeed themselves are always first to tell you how. Not everyone has
a right to speak into your life. You are certain to get the worst of the
bargain when you exchange ideas with the wrong person. Don’t follow anyone
who’s not going anywhere.

With some people you spend an evening: with others you invest it. Be careful
where you stop to inquire for directions along the road of life. Wise is the
person who fortifies his life with the right friendships. If you run with
wolves, you will learn how to howl. But, if you associate with eagles, you
will learn how to soar to great heights.
“A mirror reflects a man’s face, but what he is really like is shown by the
kind of friends he chooses.”

—Colin Powell.