Once you're involved in a business, it's part of what you do. It's the way you are.

I don't believe that saying things because you feel they are what people want to hear is the right way to be in any part of your life.

What goes around comes around in business, and it's better to help people out rather than bill them every time you speak to them.

I knew Quintessentially was a success when my father, who does a lot of business in Beirut, introduced himself to somebody and they said, 'Oh, do you know Ben Elliot? I'd really like to meet him.' I remember him ringing me up, really annoyed.

I don't set out to be connected. My business has allowed me to meet lots of interesting people, some of whom have become friends; but you can't force it. This terrible word - 'networking' - I really hate.

The way I choose to live my own life rates time and space as real luxuries.