1. Education: Begin by acquiring a solid foundation in finance, accounting, and business through a degree program. An MBA or a master's degree in finance could be especially beneficial.
2. Certifications: Consider obtaining finance-related certifications such as the CPA (Certified Public Accountant), CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), or CMA (Certified Management Accountant) to enhance your financial acumen.
3. Work Experience: Seek roles in finance or accounting to gain practical experience. This could start from entry-level roles like financial analyst or accountant and progress towards more senior positions.
4. Cross-Functional Experience: Try to gain experience in different business functions like operations, sales, or marketing. This can provide a broader perspective on how finance intersects with these areas.
5. Mentorship: Seek mentorship from finance professionals who can provide guidance, share their experience, and help you navigate your career path.
6. Continual Learning: Keep up with the latest financial trends and concepts through seminars, webinars, workshops, or finance-related books and publications.
7. Networking: Engage with finance professionals in your industry and beyond. Networking can open up opportunities for learning and career advancement.
8. Financial Modeling and Analysis: Learn how to create and interpret financial models. This skill is critical for strategic planning and decision-making.
9. Leadership Experience: CFOs are key decision-makers, so gaining leadership experience is crucial. This could be achieved through leading projects or teams.
10. Business Strategy: Learn about business strategy and how financial planning ties into it. This knowledge is key for a CFO who helps drive the strategic direction of the company.

Remember, the path to becoming a CFO is not linear and can vary greatly from person to person. It requires a mix of the right education, experience, skills, and personal attributes.