In my half year with SFI, the most valuable thing I learned (the hard way) is to take my time, not rush things and everything will eventually fall in place.
Do not become Team Leader without having a team of EA2s. You may find yourself spending a lot trying to maintain the TL status and the benefits won't be there.
Start by maintaining your EA2 status every month, build your team of at least five EA2s and then push to become Team Leader!