How can you tell if you’re an entrepreneur?
There’s no doubt that entrepreneurs have some fairly unique personality traits. If you’re an entrepreneur, you probably already know that your disposition tends to be a bit different than a non-entrepreneur’s.
1. You’re extraordinarily passionate about something.
You probably knew that “passion” would make an appearance on this list, so let’s get it out of the way. Entrepreneurs are a passionate bunch.
Where this passion comes from isn’t what really matters. You can be passionate about changing the world, new technology, having the freedom to live on your own terms, wanting to become insanely wealthy, or anything else that spurs you to action. That drive is going to get you through any rough spots, and there’s bound to be plenty.
2. You’re competitive. You don’t just think you can do something better – you know it.
Tons of successful companies were formed because their founders were naturally competitive. Google’s founders, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, thought that they could build a better Internet search engine… and so they did.
But, you know that you aren’t just competing with other businesspeople within your industry. Entrepreneurs are just as competitive with themselves, and that’s an important distinction.
3. You also know when it’s best to be flexible.
In business and in life, there are always times when flexibility is better than unyielding resolve. Take Larry Ellison (CEO of Oracle) and Marc Benioff (CEO of Salesforce, and former executive at Oracle) as one example. These two were notoriously, and publicly, competitive. But in 2013 they formed a strategic partnership that benefitted both companies. If business and entrepreneurship had a token ‘made for TV’ movie about friendship and flexibility, this would be it.
4. Family & friends are irritated by your around-the-clock work schedule.
If your loved ones haven’t gotten annoyed with you for saying “I can’t, I have work to do” at least 87 times, you might not be an entrepreneur. Or, you have really excellent time management skills. And if that’s the case, please do share your tips and tricks.
But for most entrepreneurs, having to skip out on the occasional social gathering is par for the course. Hustling doesn’t operate on a 9 – 5 schedule.
5. Even if people get mad, that’s okay. You’ll just use your excellent interpersonal skills to smooth things over.
Having great interpersonal skills is key to being a successful entrepreneur. That’s why many successful entrepreneurs are naturally gifted when it comes to building relationships. Entrepreneurs are great communicators…and if they aren’t, they team up with someone who is.
When a friend gets angry about your crazy work schedule, communicating will help. If a client gets upset about a problem with their order, empathy will go a long way. If you have an awkward or uncomfortable business meeting, knowing how to deal with different personalities will get you far.
Turn on that natural charm of yours and get to work, Entrepreneur. You’ve got an empire to build.
