One Curious Reason Why Entrepreneurs Fail

Photo by Rodion Kutsaiev on Unsplash

What makes a successful entrepreneur? There are many, many contributory talents and things. I’m not talking about the company itself. That would include things such as a clear solution to a pressing problem, an excellent product design, a willing and able sales person, adequate capitalization, hard work, and cash flow. “But wait, there’s more!”

I’m also not just speaking about traits of the entrepreneur, which would include, but not limited to, a willingness to take risks, intelligence, leadership capabilities, a quick study, and likeability. Yes, respect and likeability.

Even things like energy, passion, a certain fearlessness and of course a bit of luck are important.

I am someone who is an entrepreneur, has founded, cofounded, run, and exited six companies — some failures and some extremely successful. I have also worked with startup founders for many years and ultimately built a business around helping startups and entrepreneurs.

There is a certain something that is usually overlooked in predicting who is going to succeed and who is going to fail. I’m going to reveal the certain something to save you from the time and expense of starting a company if and when you are destined to fail.

I once saw a bumper sticker on an old pickup truck parked down the street from my…