Somebody asked me once to give them the definition of an entrepreneur. The answer was simple. An entrepreneur is someone who has the passion and courage to turn a concept that gives them joy into a business and is willing to take the necessary actions to achieve their desired goals.
An entrepreneur can be anyone who has a dream, concept, passion or desire to better themselves, their way of life, or the world around them. The word entrepreneur means different things to different people. To some it means unemployed, to others it means wealth, freedom, self satisfaction, and then there are those who just aren't sure.
Entrepreneurs take a big risk, many enter the ring knowing a lot about their field with limited business knowledge. Many are under the impression the phone will ring as soon as they are open for business. They soon find out that being an entrepreneur takes focus, drive, persistence, and a lot of work. Unless you possess these qualities, you run the risk of becoming one of the many businesses who fail. According to a recent study done by The Small Business Administration, Two-thirds of new employer establishments survive at least two years, and 44 percent survive at least four years. Survivability increases after the first 5 years, due in large to the maturity of the business and the owner. Some call it the school of hard knocks, others call it the University of Life.
How can you develop your skills as an entrepreneur?
There are dozens of books, tapes, seminars, etc.. that you can gain information from. Success stories and tips are also a great resource, but they are just a resource. The most important thing to remember is "take action" and utilize these tips and techniques to fit your style. Don't be afraid to try something new. Styles and techniques were created by someone. Someone had to have the courage to implement them the first time. And finally, if you try to copy or adopt another's philosophy it will be the equivalent of wearing someone else's shoes. They may fit, but you know they aren't yours and as a result people will start to wonder why you are walking funny.
About the Author:Maria Keiser has a wealth of experience and success in relationship building, business growth development, operations management, and event planning. She has helped many of her clients grow and better understand their businesses. Ms. Keiser takes a proactive and personal approach with her clients, she feels that this method promotes trust and a sense of community within the membership, which is conducive to success and is one of the differentiating factors in her industry. She lives by two mottos, “stretch your comfort zone” and “only ask of others what you are willing to do yourself”. Her current project is working with law makers and state officials to eliminate the Business Entity Tax. Maria is the creator of the “Ask the Entrepreneur” speaker series, and has been invited by several organizations to present to new and emerging entrepreneurs. Maria has been asked to appear on NBC 30’s 10AM newscast, WTIC AM 1080, and The Entrepreneur. She has also been quoted in newspaper articles on business. Her most recent accomplishment is her recognition as one of The Hartford Business Journal’s class of 2007 40 Under 40.
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