How To: Think Like An Entrepreneur

Even after being completely self-employed for over a decade, I still get inspired by the story of the bumble bee. Aerodynamically, the bumble bee shouldn’t be able to fly. His body is very heavy and his wings are very light. But, the bumble bee doesn’t know this, so he just flies anyway. I don’t know if this story is true, but someone told it to me years ago and it’s always stuck with me. What a great entrepreneurial metaphor.

Entrepreneurs think a little differently than everyone else. Not that it is better or worse, it’s just different. Whether you are an entrepreneur in need of some inspiration, or you are someone who plans to start your own business soon, here is a short list of ways that you can start thinking like an entrepreneur.

Dream Big!
Develop a tolerance for risk and open yourself up to the possibilities.
Trust your own instincts, regardless of what other people think of your ideas.
Be a visionary, see through time into the future.

Believe in Yourself!
Realize the boundaries are truly limitless.
Have the courage to reinvent yourself.
Put the past behind you and look forward.

Develop a Strong Work Ethic!
Be committed to your decisions.
An entrepreneur doesn’t just run their business, they live it, you must be willing to do the work.
You’ve got to be in a determined state of mind to achieve success – Focus.
Successful entrepreneurs work hard all the time, not just when the “mood strikes them.”

Know That You Will Be Tested!
If you have big goals, you will be tested. Don’t allow others to dictate your fate, stay the course.
Luck may not always be on your side. Train your brain to welcome challenges.
Make mistakes, lots of them, because that is where the magic happens.
If you have no failures, you’re selling yourself short and stuck in a conservative mindset.

If you are just starting your own business for the first time, and if you are nervous (we were all nervous in the beginning), just remember this: “…the early stages of a new endeavor are filled with a swirling mix of thoughts and emotions. Individuals feel excited and confident one minute and battle doubt and dread the next.” – Dr. Tom Barrett

In Dr. Tom Barrett’s book entitled, Win as a Team While You Dare to Dream, he says, “Entrepreneurs are driven by a different set of values. They are motivated by a desire for freedom. Freedom to pursue their own dreams. Freedom to test the limits of their creativity. Freedom of time. Freedom to be paid what they are worth. Entrepreneurs know that others view them as half crazy.”

Whether you have started your own business yet or not, I want to encourage you to keep dreaming! Never stop, for those dreams are what will make you feel alive, they will make you want to get out of bed each morning, and they will bring you much happiness if you treat them as the the gifts they truly are.

Good luck and best wishes!