| By :
Nick Messe
For most people entrepreneur is a frightening word. It may as well be a far off realm unattainable by human persistence. Of course, this isn't the actuality of being an entrepreneur. Most entrepreneurs began as individuals with a do or die option facing them. The second stage of this fearful drama is the realization that being an entrepreneur is not only interesting, it also forces hidden talents, skills and personal characteristics to the surface. It brings out the very best in an individual. More than that, it is undeniable proof that within the soul of the most ordinary people lies a true entrepreneurial spirit. What does it take to be an entrepreneur? Much less than most people imagine. You're an entrepreneur if you find yourself constantly being asked for your advice or opinion like a small business consultant. You're an entrepreneur if you can see more than a handful of ways of marketing to increase your income. You are also an entrepreneur if you understand that the truest nature of success has less to do with a dollar figure than it does with excellent performance. You're an entrepreneur if you have the fortitude to manage ups as well as you do downs. Business is notoriously full of unexpected ups and downs. How you deal with them and how they affect you is the line in the sand that determines if you have what it takes. The famous football coach, Vince Lombardi, is quoted as saying, "No guts, no glory". This is the most accurate assessment of entrepreneurship. If you lack the fortitude and strength to overcome minor obstacles, those mole-hills turn into mountainous obstacles fearsome enough to scare away the most invincible. Building sufficient enduring business character to overcome obstacles and view them as opportunities is an ongoing project for the bona fide entrepreneur. If all ventures in small business resulted in glory, eventually, it would be difficult for the cream to rise to the top among professional entrepreneurs. All would exist in glory and none in the acknowledgment of true accomplishment borne of grit and initiative. Take an inventory of the things you most like to do. Next, take a second inventory of things you do extremely well. Now, you have two points of light upon which to shine as an entrepreneur. The third and most important part of becoming a successful entrepreneur is your associations. Few entrepreneurs can exist successfully in isolation. Forming solid, reputable relationships in your business community is extremely important. This is done through memberships in most trade and business associations. No matter what area of entrepreneurism you choose, there's a network ready and available. This is how your network of associates begins and leads to ultimate success as an entrepreneur. This is a part of potent succession planning.
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