Richard Branson defies conventional wisdom on success. With Virgin Airlines – he started a thriving airline literally in an afternoon. With Virgin Cola – he took one of the most successful companies of all time head on and almost won. With Necker Island – he acquired the island first believing that the money to develop it would show up eventually, it did. A notorious adventurer, Branson is clearly, within reason, not afraid to live.

Lessons:

• Get out of your comfort zone and go into the world and explore.
• Push yourself beyond your limits.
• Practice balance. Learn to trust your instincts.
• Find fun ways to stay fit – involve your friends and family.
• Look for the best in people. There is always something special to acknowledge in a person.

Forgiveness mends.

• Expect things to be hard along the way but be sure to enjoy the sense of satisfaction from simply trying and being on the journey.