Editor's note: Be sure to read the first article in this series, "Why every CEO needs an executive coach."

As the story goes, Bill Gates first met Warren Buffett at a dinner hosted by Gates' mother.  During the meal, she asked everyone around the table to identify what they believed was the single most important factor in their personal success. Gates and Buffett both gave the same one-word answer: "focus."  Their answer should not come as a surprise.  After all, most successful CEOs and entrepreneurs attribute their success to a dedicated — some would say fanatical — commitment to achieving their goals.  No interruptions.  No sidetracking.  No juggling multiple balls in the air.  Just focusing in and doing those things critical to success.

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