THE SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEUR.

The factors from the environment in which an individual was raised, his or her family situation, and his or her personality traits has a lot to do with what makes a person successful in business. About 20 or 25 years ago if you asked almost any expert to describe a successful entrepreneur, you would probably have been given a list similar to this:

* Male
* Only child
* About 35 to 45 years old
* Bachelor's or master's degree in engineering
* Protestant
* Born in the Midwest
* Father owns a hardware store
* As a youth, delivered newspapers and sold lemonade

However, much recent research and many of my own observations seem to indicate that there are qualities commonly found in successful entrepreneurs. They all have a certain habits and characteristics. One main habit is most business owners are not intimidated by hard work. Starting a company is hard work.

Entrepreneurs tend to be independent souls, unhappy when forced to conform or toe the line. They are people who find it difficult to work for others, who want to set their own goals. Entrepreneurs are motivated by achievement rather than power or money. They set high goals that they can reach through application of their skills. They are willing to accept that they cannot predict the future, but recognize that they can guide it through their actions. Successful entrepreneurs have a healthy opinion of themselves and often have a strong and assertive personality. Their self optimism can often been seen by others as flamboyance or arrogance but entrepreneurs are just too focused to spend too much time thinking about un-constructive criticism.

All entrepreneurs have a passionate desire to do things better and to improve their products or service. They are constantly looking for ways to improve. They're creative, innovative and resourceful. If something is not working for them they simply change. Entrepreneurs know the importance of keeping on top of their industry and the only way to being number one is to evolve and change with the times.

Innovative entrepreneurs are often at the forefront of their industry so they hear the words "it can't be done" quite a bit. Successful entrepreneurs thrive on competition. They carry on elements of risk. Risk taking is calculated, measured against objectives and realities and weighed against the sacrifices and gains that need to be made. Not being optimists or pessimists, successful entrepreneurs are realistic in their risk-taking.

The most important element of any entrepreneurial undertaking is money. Successful entrepreneurs understand the dynamics of money very well.They understand that money can disappear probable faster than it was made and make every effort in ensuring the business has consistent cash flows to take care of both short-term and long-term needs.


The ability to remain focused on the goal, when others around are casting doubts, will require an independent and strong character to drive the initiative forward. The entrepreneur will inspire and encourage others to achieve the objectives set by the business.