What is more important, talent or drive?
Drive. You must have the drive to see yourself succeed in whatever it is you choose to do with your life. If you have the drive, you can accomplish so many things in life. Of course, having talent helps but it's drive that gets you up in the morning! Plus, it's the confidence and backing of your own belief in what you can achieve. I've been able to grow a sapling into a tree: a good idea to a global brand.

On a scale of one to ten, how significant a role does luck play when it comes to success?
Three. I believe that you make your own luck to a certain degree, and that by being a positive person and making the most of opportunities, this breeds luck and success.

Which is more critical, the idea or the execution?
I think that while the idea and execution go hand in hand, sometimes coming up with the initial idea is the relatively easy part, whilst the research, planning and execution stages are more challenging. With all our new innovations, execution is key - just as we created a worldwide airbrush category with Tan Airbush In A Can six years ago, we are about to reinvent the way women tan once again with a revolutionary new tanning product, and the execution of how we market and educate women will be key to the success of this product.

Is it better to be passionate or objective?
Passionate. It is important to have passion, purpose and balance in business. To love what you do and be passionate about it, but retain a good work/life balance. Success to me is waking up and knowing that I have a fabulous business and a healthy family. I have two young children now and they help keep me balanced.

What is most and least important? Please rank your priorities.

1. Drive
   Confidence
   Relationship skills
   Talent
   Organisational skills

What one trait has helped you most in business?
Being a good communicator and a people person. Anyone who has staff knows it's about keeping them motivated. I've now had so much experience in it, I think I could reinvent myself as a psychologist! I also have a personality that lends itself to stress. I definitely thrive on a challenge.

What is the one trait that has hindered you most in business?
At times, I think I make decisions too quickly and often get down the track and wish I had slowed down and taken more time to think the issues through. Having said that though, sometimes it pays off to make quick decisions in business!

What is the hardest lesson you've learned and how did you learn it?
Not to accelerate too quickly - growing too quickly for any business without the right infrastructure can definitely result in failure. In the beginning, we were drinking from a fire hose of opportunities but if we had taken advantage of every single one, we would have been under-resourced. How I recovered from it was really taking stock and looking at the long-term vision.

What is the one piece of advice you would offer other women in business?
Have a thorough understanding of the industry you are about to enter into, surround yourself with good people and most importantly, have a solid business plan to ensure all your dreams and aspirations come true.

What are the biggest mistakes you see women making in business?
Not finding that good work/life balance is a big mistake in business. It helps to keep you grounded and sane! Also, taking advantage of every opportunity rather then selecting the right ones - it's about quality not quantity.