Web Smith is a Sr. Analyst, Co-Founder, Sports / Entertainment / Political Marketing Consultant and a student of strategy. Follow him @web.

Who is your hero? 

The people who fell down and limped back up.

What’s the single best piece of business advice that helped shape who you are as an entrepreneur today, and why?

Gary Vaynerchuk has been a longtime mentor of mine. We met at SXSW 2010 and we’ve collaborated several times since. What was really helpful were the two simple impressions that he made on me:

1. One interaction can change your trajectory, so take it seriously.
2. Give, give, give, give, give, give and then ask.

What’s the biggest mistake you ever made in your business, and what did you learn from it that others can learn from too?

When I co-founded my first company, I was so conceited and stand-offish. And for no reason! Humility is crucial in the longevity game of modern entrepreneurialism. Learn from everyone, spite no one, do work and stay humble.

What do you do during the first hour of your business day and why?

The business day starts in the gym at 6 a.m. That is when my thoughts are the most raw. I find clarity in the intensity of my CrossFit workouts.

What’s your best financial/cash-flow related tip for entrepreneurs just getting started? 

If you would like someone to invest in you, show them how you can make it through a struggle with no money. They will know that you will take their funds seriously.

Quick: What’s ONE thing you recommend ALL aspiring or current entrepreneurs do right now to take their biz to the next level?

Read: “The 48 Laws of Power” and “The 50th Law.”

What’s your definition of success? How will you know when you’ve finally “succeeded” in your business?

I will never succeed because my goals will always grow with my capacity. I will get far, but I will never get “there.”