To start off the New Year, the following are the Top Ten sayings of Ladera Times Editor and Publisher Jim Schmitt. Some are original thoughts and some were learned from others over the years. He believes they are words to live by.

1. Be sure to tell the people you love and appreciate how much they mean to you every chance you get. They’re the people who are with you through the bad times as well as the good times.

2. If you don’t have time to do it right, what makes you think you will have time to do it over. Do it right the first time and save time.

3. Nothing’s impossible; the impossible only takes longer. Avoid the people who say it can’t be done; they’ll only drag you down.

4. Life is messy. Don’t let life’s every twist and turn throw you. Plan for the best, but prepare for the worst.

5. Keep your friends close and lose your enemies who, if allowed, will sap your energy, creativity, and success in business and life.

6. Don’t hide your light under a bushel basket. Advertise and market your business and talents as if your success depended on it because it does.

7. Ignore the constant, relentless changes around you at your own peril.

8. Don’t go into business with anyone who has a city for a first name.

9. When you achieve success, don’t ever, ever forget where you came from, and don’t be afraid to help the people you left behind, especially those who helped get you where you are.

10. Don’t get into a fight with someone who buys ink by the barrel! You’ll lose every time.

Friends of Jim know he has a saying for every occasion. If you have a favorite saying of your own, email it to michelle.patterson@touchpointe.com.