Ed Harper of Whitsbury Manor Stud is widely regarded as one of the sharpest minds in the bloodstock business. In the latest installment of Words to Live By, he discusses the early influence who taught him about determination, the importance of always looking forward, and why sound judgment is developed by repeatedly putting your neck on the line. TDN: Outside of your family, who has been the most important mentor in your career, and why?Ed Harper: Outside of my family, I have rather lacked career mentors. But my prep school head of sport, Paul Fowler, made a massive impression on me at an early age.He taught me that winning was a battle of will and determination, and that people only get what they deserve for their efforts–or lack thereof.In my first huddle with the Under-9s rugby team, he told us, “Winning isn't everything, boys…it's the only thing.”I'd have followed him over a cliff.TDN: What is the best piece of advice you've ever received, and who gave it to you?EH: Dad has said to me on many occasions: “Always look forward. Don't worry about what's been and gone–you can't change that. It's all about tomorrow.”He has never been interested in yesterday; it's far more exciting to make plans.TDN: What advice would you give to a young person starting out in the Thoroughbred industry today?EH: All you can ever rely on is sound judgment and hard work. The best way to improve your judgment is to put your neck on the line time and again.You will either get it right or learn very quickly.The post Ed Harper: ‘Always Look Forward, It’s All About Tomorrow’ appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.