I know there are a million answers to this....but, for ME???
#1 DO....Have a full bee suit with veil, especially if you react badly to stings (which is a 5 day recovery for me). Once a hive turns on you, you will be glad you have it! Approaching a hive knowing I am protected keeps me, and my bees, calm.
#2 DO...Plan for expansion. I didn't expect to go from 1 hive to 6 in a matter of a few warm months. And we haven't even hit our swarm season yet! X:X
#3 DO...Join a local club or association, and get to know them. Find out who may be willing to help you when you have to do things you may not be comfortable with. Be willing to help them with their hives and harvest at any time.
#4 DO...Watch lots of You Tube videos on beekeeping. JP The Beeman can keep you viewing for days, and Fat Beeman is another good one. There are tons out there, and you will quickly be able to determine who knows what they are doing, and who does not.
#1 Do NOT...Do not allow yourself to get over confident or careless. The bees will quickly put you in your place! Don't ask me how I know that...
#2 Do NOT....Do not be afraid to ask questions, before attempting doing something to your hives. One bad timed mite treatment or whatever can cost you your entire colony.
#3 Do NOT...Approach your hives if your are stinky, either bad, or good. Bees don't like BO, perfumes, hairspray, bad breath, etc. Stay clean! They sure do!
Best to you and your new addiction!! Errr...I mean adventure! :laugh: