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(1) Take it easy.

Probably the one attribute that I have that has really paid off so far is patience. I have found that things come at their own pace no matter how much of a hard charger I am. Sitting back and thinking about things, researching everything and diligent (but flexible) planning have brought their own and often unexpected rewards. I would diligently and excitedly check my web reply inbox for new prospects and sales leads to work. But my best client came to me from a referral from my dentist who contacted me through an email address I use when I anticipate getting spammed and only check about once a week. At first when my site hits would drop off, I would scramble to analyze everything. I would reconfigure my web site, increase online advertising spending and tweek keywords to death. The site hits would return and I would congratulate myself on a job well done and get some sleep. This happened over and over untill I came to realize that my web site is as cyclical as the markets that are my business. Now when the web hits drop off, I give it a little time and guess what. It picks up on its own and I sleep more.

(2) At least try to do it yourself.

I knew what I was capable of doing. What I didn't know was that I was capable of doing things that I never tried before. Creating a website for example. Marketing a website is another example. Heck - starting my own business is yet another example. I had the honor of cross training with the infamous British SAS commandos. Their motto is one that I will never forget and have chosen to live by "Who Dares - Wins." This is so true. If you do not even try, there is absolutely no way to win. By doing things myself at first, I learned about areas of business that surprise and assist me in my everyday decision making. I am by no means an expert at any of it, but am confident in my basic knowledge of the areas. I also leave areas that require expertise to the experts; such as legal, accounting, insurance etc.

(3) If the experts give you information free (like a lot of posts on this site) cherish it.

The internet is a wealth of information. Some good and some completely self serving as with anything in business. One expert in small business is the Small Business Administration in the United States. They have probably seen and heard it all. Good and bad. They have been assisting small businesses for a very long time and know what works and what doesn't. They are considered by many to be the experts at small business and have an excellent planning resource at http://www.sba.gov/smallbusinessplanner/index.html which they offer at the special introductory price of - FREE.

Best of luck to you in your endeavor and remember the triple bottom line. People - Planet - Profits.