Being an entrepreneur is hard work and requires a unique set of skills. Entrepreneurs must be emotionally durable and mentally flexible. However, entrepreneurs aren’t born that way, they learn those skills along the way. What separates them from the pack is often a few shifts in perspective that, with time, we can all make. Here are 4 ways to change your thinking to become a more successful entrepreneur.
Become a student; not knowing means nothing.
There are a lot of things that you simply don’t know. You will quickly discover that being an entrepreneur requires you to wear many hats and develop many new skill sets. The student knows that anything they don’t yet know or skills they haven’t yet acquired are simply out there waiting to be discovered. Instead of succumbing to ignorance, they know that they are one book, video, course, or conversation away from getting the information they need. They are constantly looking for opportunities to learn.
Become a rebel; the right time doesn’t exist.
It’s tempting to believe that successful people simply happen to be in the right place at the right time. Nothing could be farther from the truth. In fact, some of the most successful people spend a lot of time building their craft, honing their skills and creating the opportunities that launch their careers. They take chances that others don’t and refuse to “see reason”. They don’t just see things differently, they DO things differently, and that helps them become successful.
Become a zealot; setbacks aren’t stop signs.
Knowing when to quit is a skill. But, entrepreneurs don’t accept defeat easily. Challenges and setbacks aren’t signs that you’re heading in the wrong direction; they’re lessons that come with life. The most successful people often experience a long string of rejections before they finally have their first big break. Rather than focusing on the challenges, focus on making the most of every opportunity.
Become a leader; it’s not all about you.
Whether you are working with a team or trying to turn a hobby into a career, leadership is important. That means that you should zero in on your purpose. What gets you up in the morning? Why are you excited to work every day? If the only motivating force is money, you are off to a bad start. Your clients can tell when you are motivated by profit and when you are dedicated to providing quality goods, services, or experiences. Chase your purpose and the money will follow.