HABITS OF A MAN OF BUSINESS.

Southland Times, Issue 1211, 18 February 1870, Page 4

HABITS OF A MAN OF BUSINESS.

A sacred regard to the principles of justice i forms the basis of every transaction, and regulates the conduct of the upright man of business. He is strict in keeping his engagements. . Does nothing carelessly or in a hurry. Employs nobody to do what he can easily do himself. Keeps everything in its proper place. Leaves nothing undone that ought to be done, tod which circumstances permit him to do. ■ Keeps his designs and business from the view of others. Is prompt and decisive with his customers, and does not over-trade his capital. Prefers short credits to long ones ; and cash to credit at all times, either in buying or selling, and •mall profits in credit cases with little risk, to the chance of better gains with more hazard. He is clear and explicit in all his bargains. Leaves nothing of consequence to memory which he can and ought to commit in writing. Keeps copies of all his important letters which he sends away, and has every letter, invoice, &c, belonging to bis business, titled, classed, and put away. Never suffers his desk to be confused by many papers lying upon it. L> always at the head of his business, well knowing that if he leaves it, it wfll leave him. - Holds it as a maxim that he whose credit is suspected is not one to be trusted. Is constantly examining his books, and sees through all his affairs as far as care and attention will enable him. Balances regularly at stated times, and then makes out and transmits all his accounts current to his customers, both at home and abroad. Avoids as much as possible all sorts of accommodation in money matters and law suits where there is the least hazard. ' Is economical in his expenditure, always living within, his income. Keeps a memorandum-book in bis pocket, in which he notes down every particular relative to appointments, addresses, and petty cash matters. Is cautious how he becomes security for any person ; and is generous when urged by motives of humanity. Let a man act strictly to these habits ; when once-begun they will be easy to continue — ever remembering that he hath no profits by his pains whom providence doth not prosper — and success will attend his efforts. Take pleasure in your business and it will become your recreation. Hope for the best, think for the worst, and bear whatever happens.