I ran across this list in Investors Business Daily a while ago and wanted to pass it on.  It seems leaders and successful people in all walks of life have most of these traits and, when combined, these traits can turn dreams into reality.  Whether you're a banker, baker, candlestick maker, an artist or an entrepreneur, these same qualities are an essential part of the recipe for success.  

1.      How you think is everything.  Always be positive.  Think success, not failure.  Beware of a negative environment.

2.      Decide upon your true dreams and goals.  Write down your specific goals and develop a plan to reach them.

3.      Take action.  Goals are nothing without action.   Don’t be afraid to get started.  Just do it.

4.      Never stop learning.  Go back to school or read books.  Get training and acquire skills.

5.      Be persistent and work hard.  Success is a marathon, not a sprint.  Never give up.

6.      Learn to analyze details.  Get all the facts, all the input.  Learn from your mistakes.

7.      Focus your time and money.  Don’t let other people or things distract you.

8.      Don’t be afraid to innovate, be different.  Following the herd is a sure way to mediocrity.

9.      Deal and communicate with people effectively.  No person is an island.  Learn to understand and motivate others.

10.     Be honest and dependable, take responsibility.  Otherwise, numbers 1-9 won’t matter.