The top things

Learning from history is cheap. And worth it.

What are the five best decisions your competitor or your predecessor made last year? 

Not only because they worked, but because they showed you a new way of thinking, something that went against your instincts or biases...

Every political candidate ought to be able to outline the five lessons learned from the men and women who came before--especially the positive things they've learned from those in other parties. Those unwilling or unable to do so are either demagogues or ignorant.

Every job candidate ought to be able to outline the five lessons learned from the leaders they've worked with previously. Those unwilling or unable to do so are not paying attention.

The number one thing to steal from your competitors: Wisdom.