In business as well as in personal life, success depends on hard work, flexibility, and consistent efforts to improve performance. Compare this 10-point checklist to practices in your organization.

1. Build self-esteem. The organization must believe in its own strengths.

2. Set demanding goals. A clear vision of the future provides a direction for short-term, achievable goals.

3. Strive for a positive mood. Emphasize gains. Negative attitudes do not lead to progress.

4. Establish good habits. Organized work practices inspire trust.

5. Master communication. Sharing information is an important ingredient in inspiring effort.

6. Learn from role models. Sharing best practices in the organization promotes continuous improvement.

7. Treat pressure as a positive force. Successful organizations learn to thrive under stress, pushing themselves to higher levels.

8. Be persistent. Quitters never achieve success. It comes only to the resolute.

9. Strive for flexibility. Every organization meets roadblocks. To pass them takes an adaptable approach.

10. Embrace success gracefully. An arrogant attitude can bring trouble to even the most successful organization.