A successful business is a good way to create significant wealth, but not every business will grow into a News Corporation or a McDonalds.

Don't invest in anything that you don't understand. Do your research first.

If you don't act now while it's fresh in your mind, it will probably join the list of things you were always going to do but never quite got around to. Chances are you'll also miss some opportunities.

Learn as much as you can about your proposed business. Ask questions. Join industry associations. Study successful competitors carefully.

There are plenty of ways to get ahead. The first is so basic I'm almost embarrassed to say it: spend less than you earn.

Study the business you think you might like. Satisfy yourself that they will suit your needs. There are so many alternatives available - don't be too quick to choose. Just about any business can fail and any can succeed.

Be prepared for disappointment and frustration. Be persistent and bounce back even more determined to succeed.