It’s been 2.5 years since I started @AstoriaAdvisors and I thought I would share some of the most important lessons I’ve learned being an #entrepreneur.

1. It’s one thing to have a gameplan and another thing to have the mental fortitude to execute it.

2. Take as much advice as you can from other entrepreneurs. Don’t be ignorant thinking you know everything.

3. There will be tons of curveballs. Frankly, its an emotional roller-coaster. But it’s all worth it, especially if you have success.

4. It’s important to have good backers. Can’t emphasize this enough.

5. Try to hire only 10s especially in the beginning. Having a 6 or 7 can be detrimental when you are a small company.

6. Have patience. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Somethings you just can’t hurry along.

7. Save as much money as you possibly can in the beginning. Cheap motels, bring your own lunch, drive to meetings instead of flying.

8. Revenues can be more of a fixed determination (once you get a client) but operational, business, and human input costs are a wild card.

9. Lead with content. Get your message out. Let people know who you are.

10. All you need is that first client. Once you have that first client, things tend to build on themselves.

11. Don’t buy expensive office space. You will be on the road a ton in the beginning. Easy way to save $.

12. Don’t forget those who were there for you in the beginning.

13. You will rely on family more than you think.

14. To do lists are good. But make sure you separate what you need to do, from what you want to do.

15. There's tons of noise in this world, especially with a new business. Make sure you navigate that noise.

I’m thankful for a lot this and every #thanksgiving. It was always my dream to start a business. If it’s yours as well, then #justdoit.

Life is simply, too short.