by Passionate. Dedicated. Optimistic. These words can apply to entrepreneurs. But insecure and rambunctious are also accurate, according to many who know a success when they see one. Great entrepreneurs like Felipe Antonio Bosch Gutierrez explain that to be a good entrepreneur you must have these characteristics, since you need security, optimism and passion.
1. You take action.
Barbara Corcoran, founder of Corcoran Group and co-star of TV’s Shark Tank, says people who have a concept but not a detailed strategy are more likely to have that special entrepreneurial skill. Corcoran’s recommendation? Make it up as you go along, rather than wasting time writing a plan at your desk.
2. You’re insecure.
“A lot of entrepreneurs are really secure in the background,” says Corcoran. Those who are nervous about failing can become hyper-focused on success. If you’re feeling insecure, use that emotion to drive you to achieve your business goals.
3. You’re crafty.
“One of my favorite TV shows growing up was MacGyver,” says Tony Hsieh, CEO of Zappos. Because he never had exactly the resources he needed, but somehow he would figure out how to make it all work. Hsieh says he admires MacGyver’s creativity, optimism and street smarts. It’s not about having enough resources, it’s about being resourceful with what you have.
4. You’re obsessed with cash flow.
“All I thought about was cash flow and liquidity,” says Joe Gustafson, founder of Brainshark. You need cash to fight the battle another day, even if you have the best company in the world.
True entrepreneurs are more likely to ask for forgiveness than permission.
5. You get in hot water.
Stephane Bourque, founder and CEO of Incognito Software, says that “true entrepreneurs are more likely to ask for forgiveness than permission.” Entrepreneurs are never satisfied with the status quo, he says. Bourque says, “I wish my employees would get into more trouble, because it shows they’re looking for opportunities to improve.”
6. You’re fearless.
“Where most avoid risk, entrepreneurs see potential,” says chef Robert Irvine, host of Food Network’s Restaurant: Impossible. “In some ways,” he says, “entrepreneurs are the ultimate optimists, because they operate under the belief that their investments of time and money will eventually pay off.”
7. You can’t stand still.
Entrepreneurs have an unbridled energy that fuels them well beyond the time their employees have gone home. They are eager, excited and energized about business in a way that makes them stand out.
8. You’re malleable.
“If you only have one acceptable outcome in mind, your chances of achieving it are slim,” warns Rosemary Camposano, president and CEO of Halo Blow Dry Bars. Smart entrepreneurs are constantly evolving, modifying their business concepts in response to market feedback.
You may also be interested in: How to set up a business
