A generation ago, the image was that you had to trample everyone else down to succeed; but I don't believe that makes good business sense.

I am a great believer that you need passion and energy to create a truly successful business.

Education doesn't just take place in stuffy classrooms and university buildings, it can happen everywhere, every day to every person.

When employees tell you about their good ideas for the business, don't limit your response to asking questions, taking notes and following up. If you can, ask those people to lead their projects and take responsibility for them. From those experiences, they will then have built the confidence to take on more and you can take a further step back.

Running a business is making a difference in people's lives

It can be a challenge not to let failure, or negativity from others, prevent you from going after what you believe in and what in your gut you know can work. However it is important to face these challenges head on and give them a go and importantly don't beat yourself up if you fail - just pick yourself up, learn as much as you can from the experience and get on with the next challenge.

A company's employees are its greatest asset and your people are your product