The other day, I was talking with my mentor of 40 years. He said with a sense of disbelief, “It’s surprising … the older I get, the more famous I am.” In other words, he was saying his legend is becoming bigger than life. I like to say it another way: “There is no room for hubris.” The reason my mentor’s reputation is so strong is because of the great things he has helped others accomplish, both personally and in their business. And he’s successful because he doesn’t dwell on the legends that have sprung up about him and his efforts. Rather, he lets the work speak for itself. It’s one thing when your associates compliment you about how you have been able to lead the organization — but don’t become absorbed by what is written in the press, and don’t pat your own back. Stay focused. Stay hungry. Check your ego at the door.