When we start a new venture, we base it on hard research and analysis. Typically, we review the industry and put ourselves in our customer's shoes to see what we could do better.

People who think and say we more often than I are a lot more likely to succeed.

Tough times are inevitable in life and in business. But how you compose yourself during those times defines your spirit and will define your future.

Whatever you and your team decide your new brand will stand for, deliver on that promise. That's the only way you'll ever control your brand. And beware: brands always mean something. If you don't define what the brand means, your competitors will.

Past failures unlock future successes

I am a great believer that you need passion and energy to create a truly successful business. Remember many new businesses do not make it and running a business will be a tough experience, involving long hours and many hard decisions - it helps to have that passion to keep you going.

Develop the business around the people; build it, don't buy it; and, then, be the best.