It's important to have secure footing on each rung. Common sense, thorough research, and sound advice should allay your fears to a reasonable level. Knowing what is acceptable risk should help too. If your biggest fear is that rain will ruin an outdoor promotion, plan something inside. If you fear your suppliers will keep you from meeting a production deadline, find a more reliable supplier.
Nice guys finish last.
I consider myself a nice guy, and I hate to finish last. But I've had to lose a few times in order to win the next round. I've learned something from every last-place finish. Sticks and stones can break your bones, but these four-letter words will hurt your business. Mackay is author of four New York Times bestsellers, including his most recent in 1999, Pushing the Envelope .