Successful businesses often share key characteristics that contribute to their long-term viability and growth potential. Firstly, being founder-run is significant as founders are typically more committed to their vision and willing to endure challenges over decades. They also make strategic decisions that may yield poor short-term results but are aimed at long-term growth. Secondly, a business should be cash flow positive, indicating current profitability and the ability to reinvest for further opportunities. Thirdly, having a worldwide user or customer base enhances impact and market potential. Additionally, a successful business demonstrates substantial top-line growth; sustained growth of sales is correlated with stock performance in the public market. Companies often need to innovate and strategize to unlock higher growth rates. Lastly, diversification in investments is crucial to mitigate risks and capitalize on potential high-performing ventures, allowing for the acceptance of losses in exchange for significant wins in the long run.