I stumbled upon this video from Wilco de Kreij, an online entrepreneur from the Netherlands. Never heard of him? Me neither. However, there is wisdom in his video, in which he shares five lessons learned in going from zero to the successful business person he is today. These are universal lessons that apply to all, not just the next online multi-millionaire:

5. Make sure your business solves real problems.

My business is real estate. I am a residential real estate broker. The Charles Cherney Team helps buyers buy the right home and sellers sell for the best price. Buying and selling are real problems. Our business helps buyers buy and sellers sell. We have helped hundreds of buyers and sellers succeed.

4. Never rely on just one thing for your business.

As a Realtor, my business comes from a variety of sources: past clients; sphere of influence; open houses; my team website CambridgeRealEstate.com; my social media and online presence; referrals; recommendations; brand recognition; attending events. It's not one thing. It's many things. I don't rely on one thing. I invest in all of these things.

3. Focus on giving value first.

Don't just try to make money for money's sake. Always lead with giving value first. For example, I have answered a series of common questions that buyers and sellers have (see AskCharlesCherney.com). The other part of this equation is to give without the expectation of return. Don't give to get. Rather, give to give. Focus on giving value. Period. Personally, for me, this is the most important lesson.

2. Care about your customers (your clients).

Always treat your clients with the respect they deserve. If you really care about your clients, you will stand out. As a Realtor, this means that I remain in regular communication with my buyer and seller clients. I respond promptly to all emails. I aim to answer all questions and address all concerns. I am on time and prepared for all appointments. In short, I am genuinely present in the relationship with each and every client.

1. Don't do everything yourself.

Don't try to do everything on your own. Get other people to help you out. The Charles Cherney Team at Compass gets assistance from Compass with solving tech problems and producing marketing materials and using software tools. We get help from Curaytor with our website and online marketing. Team members get guidance and support from one another at our regular team meeting and on a daily basis as situations arise the require help. As the African proverb says, "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together."