I used to write accounting software in a past life. I regret not taking business courses, so, everything I have learned has been through experience or paying accountants to teach me.
A lot of it is seat-of-the-pants, make it work then figure out a better way to do it.
Everyone has better design skills than I do.
I know a guy that was making a lot of money, I told him how he should at least try and shelter it, but, he didn't want the burden of the extra paperwork, so, he pays his %. He probably earns 5x what I do, and I would bet that he probably brings home maybe 2x what I do. In a few years though, I believe the investments I have made in theory and concept should allow me to eclipse him in net worth and take-home pay. The irony is that in 2001 I made an investment and committment to a particular fiscal lifestyle which made me 'poor' and now he doesn't talk to me because I'm not 'wealthy'.
I would rather not have a mortgage, but, it is the cheapest money I'll ever see, and barring any substantial income shift, I have much better uses of my money than the tax adjusted 1.7% interest I pay on the home loan. Spousal unit also refuses to let me pull cash out of the equity for expansion, so, I just work harder. One day, it will pay off.