- Focus on solving real-world problems rather than filling market gaps. - Treat location as a strategic asset for capital and manufacturing access. - Maintain a lean, 'poor' mindset to ensure long-term sustainability. - Use equity to align team incentives and avoid high salary overheads. - View competitors as potential partners to unlock collaborative growth. - Prioritize legal foundations like trademarks and daily bookkeeping. - Approach investors by asking for advice first to build trust.