Develop business and technical skills in a given trade preferably a trade where your serves can be sold in small amounts to the public or small businesses.  Big business can purchase the services in large enough quantity that often they will turn you into an employee and have so much power over the situation that they limit your earnings.  (ie van service, RPS Truck driver) Who has the power in the supply chain? 

Invest in yourself- education training licenses

Stay out of trouble with the law- destroys wealth and licenses

Control personal vices ie Drinking, partying etc

Give thought to who you marry or have children with (Don't believe the hype about love)

Market those skills

Have cash ample cash flow

Limit your personal expenses and personal overhead

Advertise, Advertise, Advertise