Only what is below you tries to pull you down.

When all seems to be against you, remember, a ship sometimes has to sail against the current, not with it.

Keep away from the kinship of the individuals who continually ask and examine the imperfections of others.

If you tend to a flower, it will bloom, no matter how many weeds surround it.

It is in vain to stone the sky, no matter how big the rock is.

The world is already full of critics; to stand out, be an encourager.

To avoid enemies, say nothing; to avoid critics, do nothing; to avoid haters, be nothing; but to avoid mediocrity, ignore all.

Excellence annoys your haters, success infuriates them, and genius kills them.