What does it take to be a good leader? You have to be able to handle big decisions. For example, does your business focus on a broad market or a narrow one? You have to be able to write a business plan and secure financing. Most businesses lack the solid, beneficial mentoring that I suggest. Keep track of your expenses and income, pay taxes and decide when it's time to buy new equipment or technology. Plan ahead for the good times and for the bad. Handle legal challenges, liability problems and insurance policies with expedience. And don’t underestimate the importance of having some kind of Human Resources (HR) function within your company: firing quick and hiring slow are two things that I recommend.READ»