Creating your own startup business from scratch is always a challenge. It can certainly be daunting, but it’s important to remember that many startups do have real success. There isn’t necessarily a secret to the business owners who are able to make it work. But at the same time, there are a handy set of skills and tips that can go a long way toward promoting success.

If you are trying to build a startup and are looking for some advice about how to be effective, read on! These three tips can help make your endeavor more likely to succeed.

1. Plan Diligently

There simply is no substitute for effective planning. Good, organized planning is what often sets successful entrepreneurs apart from those who are less able to find success.

What does good planning mean? For one thing, it means starting your business with a sterling business plan. Your plan should be comprehensive, realistic, and well-organized. It should be the type of document that will entice prospective lenders, and that shows you have a real grasp on what needs to be done to be successful in your field.

Once you get started, you should stick to the plan (adapting when necessary) and use it as a guiding blueprint as you build your business.

2. Hire Effectively

One other thing many startups have in common is a great team. There really is nothing like a good team to keep a company moving forward and working well together. A good team can anticipate problems before they occur, and take on work you delegate when you’re busy.

Do your best to find creative, capable, loyal staffers to join your business at the outset, and you’ll be more likely to have success in the long term.

3. Take Personal Time

While it might seem unrealistic, taking sufficient personal time is also essential for success. Startups that are too overworked at the beginning are more likely to have owners (and employees) suffer from serious burnout, hurting them in the long term. Having sufficient time to rest, recharge, and plan the path ahead is essential to keep your business growing sustainably. There will always be work to be done, but resting is very important too!

It’s true: some startups do have more success than others, and certain factors, like economic conditions or plain luck, play a role. Still, the tips above can help you set yourself up for success.