My Definition of an Entrepreneur
A brief word on the spirit of business creators.
To me, an Entrepreneur (ENTs) is a dreamer, a go-getter, and someone with ambition to form something greater than themselves.
They’ve acquired the level of business-savvy needed to build something in spite of the risks. Those risks may be financial, emotional, and / or territory-related.
ENTs demonstrate a multitude of characteristics: in theory, they are accountable, organized, confident, creative, and motivated. (Please don’t hesitate to respond if I’m missing something.)
They see opportunity, where others see a problem. ENTs use their knowledge and personal attributes to gather information, assemble a product or service, network, and pursue creation of value for the greater good of society.
Why be an Entrepreneur?
Everyday, more and more minds contemplate “starting something” on their own. The Internet has made it easier than ever to develop and nurture new ideas for commerce.
The Entrepreneurial spirit is alive and thriving like never before.
There are plenty of reasons people aspire to become ENTs: to take control of work-life, to positively impact society, and of course, to receive a sizable profit.
Above all, I think people are tired of the standard 9–5 humdrum job. People need more fulfilling work for the sake of their well-being. We need to further bridge the gap between work and pleasure.
The list of reasons to become self-empowered go on and on.
However, do not let the appreciable upside blind you. As they say, everything that glitters ain’t gold!
You can’t simply “make the switch” to Entrepreneurship and expect to live a lavish, work-free, CEO lifestyle. If you decide on this path, expect to work harder over more hours than you ever have before. This is not easy.
There will be plenty of stress from uncertainty, long hours, and constant uphill battles.
Unfortunately, most people lose sight of this “dark side.” The overwhelming pressure knocks a lot of owners out and that’s why more than half of businesses fail within the first five years.
Moreover, don’t expect fellow industry players to root for you or show you where to go. Sure, people will encourage you, but there will be no hand-holding, whatsoever.
The competition never stops.
You (and your team) must navigate the waters and find a way to differentiate and optimize your business process. The odds are stacked against you from the very beginning.
It’s going to be a vexing journey and you have to accept that.
Who can be an Entrepreneur?
Anyone. Yes, I truly believe anyone can become their own boss!
You don’t need to be a Caucasian American. You don’t need a rich uncle. You don’t need a mentor. You gotta have vision and a strong inclination of how your venture will provide unique value. Dedication and discipline are also key.
And most of all…
You need drive and a fearless mentality against failure.
Notice: anyone can achieve these things.
Entrepreneurship is based around purpose, creativity, and value — these three factors fuel the pursuit.
Success is contingent on the ability to persevere, adapt, and grow. Never let a book’s description or an expert’s opinion stop you from starting. Although commonalities exist among Entrepreneurs, there is no one-size-fits-all.
Do it your way.
- AZ
This story is published in The Startup, Medium’s largest entrepreneurship publication followed by 319,583+ people.
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