Marshall Goldsmith is an author of management-related literature, professor, consultant and executive coach. Born in Valley Station, Kentucky, he received his BS from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, his MBA from Indiana University and his Ph.D. from UCLA. From 1976-2000 he became an Assistant Professor and then Associate Dean at Loyola Marymount University’s College of Business. He currently is a University Professor at Alliant International University.

Goldsmith also works with entrepreneurs, including Jonathan Klein, who started Getty Images. In an interview with FSB editorial director Brian Dumaine, Goldsmith dissects five common (and particularly annoying) habits that he says can hold back even the best small-business owner.

1. Winning too much
2. Starting with ‘no,’ ‘but’ or ‘however’
3. Adding too much value
4. Playing favorites
5. Goal obsession

Are you an entrepreneur who can relate to these habits? Can you name other annoying habits?

FSB