To know oneself, one should assert oneself.
Well done is better than well said.
Begin to be now what you will be hereafter.
If you're going through hell, keep going.
Always desire to learn something useful.
Know or listen to those who know.
If you think you can do it, you can.
Never complain and never explain.
The most effective way to do it, is to do it.
Wherever you are - be all there.
But to me the bottom line is the more education you can give yourself, and the more preparation you can do, the less chance of failing.