Jack Ma emphasizes that business is not easy, and the key to success is in building a team with shared vision and dreams. He advises listening closely to your customers—if they’re happy, you’re on the right track. Similarly, a confident team signals that your company is headed in the right direction. In Alibaba's early days, Ma drew confidence from grateful customer emails, even without revenue. Lastly, he points out that if competitors target your confidence, it’s a sign that you’re doing well.