A good idea for a new business tends not to occur in isolation, and often the window of opportunity is very small. So speed is of the essence.

Don't bother doing something unless you're radically different from the competition.

A successful business must have a sound knowledge of its market and work on how its product or service will be different, stand out and improve people's lives. If you can ensure it responds to a real need in the market place, your business can punch well above its weight.

Sometimes the riskiest decision you can make is to do nothing.

I am constantly pushing myself and my own expectations and have always found that I've always come out better for it. Fear is human nature, but turning fear into opportunity is what will make a difference. I would much rather look back at my life saying "I can't believe I did that," than, "What if I had done that?"

The important thing is that you've got a strong foundation before you start to try to save the world or help other people.

I felt uneasy about making the rapid decisions I have always made, and wondered whether every decision should be formally ratified and minuted at a board meeting.