“When you’re green you grow; when you’re ripe you rot” said Ray Kroc, founder of McDonalds. Business is a competitive game, and staying ahead requires continuous improvement and effort. The surest way to advance your company is being willing to learn from everyone and anyone. By staying green, you will avoid the curse of being an “expert” – knowing it all and having no desire to listen. You can improve yourself by reading, attending seminars, visiting trade shows, presenting at conferences, and otherwise interacting with knowledgeable peers and associates.