If you want to make it…

Self-belief
You are what you see yourself to be. If you are low on self-confidence, then even if you have pots of money and powerful contacts, your dream to make it big will always remain that.

Develop a problem-solving approach
The ideas you think up should be geared towards problem solving. Your idea has to be unique. Jumping on to the bandwagon doesn't ensure success. Think of smarter ways to solve problems.

Get a strategy
Have a plan in place before you set out, but don't stick to it blindly - the best plans may falter on the ground.

Leverage technology
Keep yourself abreast of the technological developments in your field, and see where you can use them to improve the way your operation runs.

Focus on the customer
Remember that while dealing with people three things matter: accessibility, promptness in responding to their needs and dealing with them in a friendly manner. If you lack in any of these departments, you are not equipped to run a business.

Cultivate humility
Even though you think, plan, act and try to make a foolproof strategy, things may go awry. You must be able to quickly backtrack, see what went wrong and move on.

Manage your cash well
You need to have a total control of the cash flows. Don't exceed your budget and don't fall into the trap of emphasising style over substance to impress your clients or investors. Investors judge you by your ideas and your will power to carry them through.