Which is more important, talent or drive?
Drive, although ideally, you need a mixture of both to be successful. If I had to choose one, I believe skills can be learned but drive and determination can't - these are critical to success.

On a scale of one to ten, how significant a role does luck play when it comes to success? Seven. I believe that in life you create your own luck. Part of this is being open to opportunities and being willing to take calculated risks; sometimes it just feels as though you are in the right place at the right time. However, to achieve success, you have to seize the moment.

Which is more critical, the idea or the execution?
Execution. Ideas are very important but if they are not executed well then they'll never achieve a company's bottom line objectives or targets.

Is it better to be passionate or objective?
Passionate. Any successful entrepreneur or leader I have known has had 100% passion. Passion is what inspires people, whether it is the vision of the company or fighting for a common cause. It is critical to success. Being objective in business is also important. However, that is why you have a team, boards and committees. Good leaders surround themselves with the right people who complement their skill set and are experts in their own fields to ensure they make the right decisions.

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

1. Relationship Skills
   Organisational Skills
   Drive
   Talent
   Confidence

What one trait has helped you most in business?
Walking the talk - aligning my actions to my words as a leader. This has been very important in attracting and retaining Gen X and Gen Y staff as they want to work with someone who walks the talk, empowers them in their role and acknowledges their contribution.

What is the one trait that has hindered you most in business?
Being politically naive as I am naturally an optimist. I believed that if I was consistent in my actions, delivered results and honest, the political players would see what I was about and I would gain their respect. I have learnt that this is not the case. It is vital to understand the politics of the place you are in and how you can navigate them.

What is the hardest lesson you've learned and how did you learn it?
What not to do as a leader. Once, I was demoted in title but required to perform the same role. I lost a lot of confidence but I learned what not to do as a leader and decided the type of leader I would become. This is the best lesson I could ever have received.

What is the one piece of advice you would offer other women in business?
Believe in yourself - never be afraid to dream big - have a BHAG (big hairy audacious goal - Jim Collins, Good to Great). Ensure that you work in an environment where you can be empowered to reach your potential.

What are the biggest mistakes you see women making in business?
Both women and men make mistakes in business - the important thing is to learn from them. I think it's important for women to be confident in their abilities and proactive in supporting other women in leadership roles.