I believe there are three basic essentials for success in life and business:Essential #1 - CHARACTER - When it comes to success in life and business, integrity is the coin of the realm. A good reputation is more valuable than diamonds and gold. If I say I'm going to do something, I need to follow through even if it hurts. My word must be my bond. I need to care about other people at least as much as I care about myself. It has been said, "If you help others get what they need, ultimately you will get what you need." In my saner moments, I believe that to be true. If I don't get character right, the other two essentials listed below won't matter.Essential #2 - COMMUNICATION - To be successful in life and business, I need to communicate well; verbal and written. Effective communication means you talk while I listen and you listen while I talk. Without good communication, there is only static on the line. Being an effective communicator is a skill that must be learned and practiced.Essential #3 - PEOPLE SKILLS - To be successful in life and business, I must have good people skills. I can't be the guy in the corner texting in a room full of people. I need to mix it up with the people around me and I don't mean in some backslapping phony way. I must engage people with interest and authenticity. I need to look them in the eye and listen. To unlock the secret to good people skills, go back and reread essential #1. Character is foundational.