Cornelius Vanderbilt

"Never show weakness in negotiation; it will be exploited."

"The future belongs to those bold enough to seize it."

"Knowledge of your enemy is half the battle in commerce."

"Patience in preparation, speed in execution."

"A handshake means nothing; put it in writing."

"The masses follow; the wise lead."

"Comfort breeds complacency; challenge breeds greatness."

"I invest in people of proven character and ability."

"The man who serves his customers well will never lack for work."

"Wealth without purpose is an empty achievement."

"An empire requires constant attention and vigilance."

"I respect competition; it sharpens the mind and strengthens resolve."

"The mediocre are content; the great are never satisfied."

"Every failure contains a lesson for those wise enough to see it."

"Build alliances with powerful men; they are your greatest assets."

"The man who cannot make decisions should not be in charge."

"My fortune came from understanding what people need."

"Sentiment has no place in the boardroom."

"The strongest survive; the rest fade into obscurity."

"Never underestimate the power of a simple, clear message."

"The age of the individual entrepreneur is upon us."

"I built my steamship lines on the principle of reliability."

"A man's ambition should exceed his grasp, or what is life for?"

"The market rewards the bold and punishes the timid."

"I have always paid fair wages because honest men work harder."

"The future is written by those who take action today."

"A reputation for integrity is worth more than gold."

"The common man seeks security; the extraordinary seek mastery."

"Never waste time on gossip; it profits no one."

"I evaluate every venture by its potential for expansion."