1. Have A Strong Constitution ? Justices deliver decisions by interpreting the U.S. Constitution. Never let the challenges of running your small business overwhelm your judgment.

2. Trust Your Beliefs ? Members of the Court maintain supreme confidence in their opinions. Know your core values, and let them serve each day as your guiding light.

3. Treat Everyone With Respect ? Justices take an oath to "do equal right to the poor and to the rich, and? faithfully and impartially discharge and perform all the duties..." Hold yourself to the highest standards in dealings with customers/clients, employees and suppliers.

4. Address One Thing ? The Court receives 7,000 appeals each year, accepts about 100, then disposes them one at a time. Focus on your most important issue before moving on to the next.

5. Listen First ? In your small business, as in court, be sure to listen before deciding, especially when dealing with employees and speaking with prospective customers/clients.

6. Be Decisive ? Stick with your decision, unless things change and overturning it is necessary.

7. Majority Rules ? Five concurring votes determine a Supreme Court ruling. Don't wait to make a decision until you're 100 percent certain; when your instinct reaches a majority, move forward.

8. Dissent Is Healthy ? Justices who disagree with the majority may write dissenting opinions. Encouraging your team to voice their opinions ? regardless of whether they agree with you ? will lead you to better decisions.

9. Seek The Best ? We view Supreme Court justices as our nation's top legal minds. Always hire the brightest employees, regardless of the position?and be patient finding them.

10. Skip The Critics ? Justices adhere to their interpretations regardless of political pressure, public opinion or media hype. Keep negative people away from your decision-making process.

11. Dress Appropriately ? Justices' robes represent the honor of their position. Whatever the attire and d?cor for your small business, uphold the standards for everyone on your team.

Copyright ? 2005 by Success Handler, LLC. All rights reserved.

The Coach, David Handler, is the founder of Success Handler, (http://www.successhandler.com), and specializes in helping small business leaders find clarity and take action. He understands the challenges of running a business, because he's been there ? as a small business owner, franchisee, franchisor, corporate leader and trainer. Much like sports coaches, his coaching will show you how to compete on a level playing field in your industry.