Quotes from Richard Branson

Capitalism has proven to be the only system that works, but the problem with capitalism is that extreme wealth ends up in the hands of a few people.

Most people would assume my business success, and the wealth that comes with it, have brought me happiness. But I know I am successful, wealthy, and connected because I am happy.

To me, business isn't about wearing suits or pleasing stockholders. It's about being true to yourself, your ideas and focusing on the essentials.

Entrepreneurs are natural problem-solvers, which means that we always have ideas for new businesses popping into our heads. Having a lot of options is great, but sometimes it can be hard to focus on one when you are keen to move onto the next.

When I started Virgin from a basement in west London, there was no great plan or strategy. I didn't set out to build a business empire... For me, building a business is all about doing something to be proud of, bringing talented people together and creating something that's going to make a real difference to other people's lives.

Confidence breeds confidence and negativity breeds negativity. Treat those around you with respect and dignity and they will thrive.

If you look after your staff, they'll look after your customers. It's that simple.

A good leader leads from the front. Don't get stuck in the office. Get out, meet people and listen to their stories.

When people are placed in positions slightly above what they expect, they are apt to excel.

You shouldn't blindly accept a leader's advice. You've got to question leaders on occasion.

The best way of learning about anything is by doing.

The balloons only have one life and the only way of finding out whether they work is to attempt to fly around the world.

Never take your eyes off the cash flow because it's the life blood of business.

By putting the employee first, the customer effectively comes first by default, and in the end, the shareholder comes first by default as well.

When hiring somebody, I never ask to see a curriculum vitae. I feel that since I didn't have one myself, it would be a bit presumptuous to ask to see anyone else's.

Material things are delightful, but they're not important.

I'm not sure how I'd survive without English Breakfast tea. Even in the Caribbean, I must drink 20 cups a day.

Back when I was in school, few people understood dyslexia and what to do for it. My teachers thought I was lazy and not very clever, and I got bored easily... thinking of all the things I could do once I left school. I couldn't always follow what was going on.

Just watching Israel bombarding Palestine and Palestine sending one or two little rockets over to Israel - it's just too sad for words.

Building a business is not rocket science, it's about having a great idea and seeing it through with integrity.

I'm a great believer in life to saying yes and not saying no, and hopefully making people smile and just having fun in life.

The best advice I could give anyone is to spend your time working on whatever you are passionate about in life.

Tough times are inevitable in life and in business. But how you compose yourself during those times defines your spirit and will define your future.

Life's too short. If you're passionate - stand up.