From Becoming Sir by Ella Dominguez An experienced sub sends a letter to a newbie Dom.
...Submission is a gift, and just because a woman is allowing you to take control of her, doesn't mean she owes you anything. I know Dominating a submissive is an exciting and powerful thing, but please don't let your ego get the best of you or your roll as a Dominant go to your head.
...A Dominant to me is someone who is courageous and not afraid to defend himself or his loved ones. He is also not afraid to admit fear and faces it head on.
Self-effacing, well informed and hard working are other qualities that define a Dom.
A sense of humor and ability to laugh at oneself is a must in a dominant personality and a quality I think is underestimated, but that's just my personal opinion.
Most importantly a Dominant is generous, loving and respectful to not only his submissive, but to all women. He is gentlemanly in public, playful in private, and a savage in the bedroom.
I found this amazing quote from wrightwilliams.org: "A True Dom has a firm hand, a firm mind, a firm gaze, a firm grip, and a soft heart." I couldn't have said it any better so I won't try.
I think you'll find that a submissive requires more time and affection than your everyday woman. She needs her Dom to continually seduce consent from her and give her what she is afraid to ask for because pushing her limits will set her free from fear of the unknown.
As for what a sub needs, I can only speak for myself. but I crave and need structure and rules, as do most subs I'd imagine. It sounds like a lot to take on, and it is. But then again, a submissive is giving up a piece of her soul when she offers herself to her Dom.
I'll leave you with this last thing. Everyone's needs and kinks are different, and there are a million ways to live this lifestyle. All you can do is live it in a way that satisfies you, but live it honorably because it's a great responsibilty, being a Dom is not something that should be entered into lightly.