Five Not So Obvious Qualities That Define Successful Entrepreneurs

They say no

Entrepreneurs are wired to operate in perpetual ‘Yes’ mode because of the fear of missing out (aka FOMO) but the essence of a successful entrepreneur and an effective strategy is choosing what not to do. Entrepreneurs are crystal clear about their goals, they set boundaries and learn to say ‘No’. Saying ‘No’ becomes an essential tool that ensures priorities and goals do not get derailed. By saying ‘No’, you are actually saying ‘Yes’ to an outcome that is far better for you and your business. Steve Jobs was the master of saying no. In 1997, Apple had 350 products. Over the next two years Steve Jobs reduced this number to 10. The rest is history...

 They position themselves to serve

Successful entrepreneurs always serve their customers from a place of compassion. They never ask themselves ‘What can I get from you?’, rather they ask, ‘How can I help you?’. Successful entrepreneurs learn how to serve the unique needs of the individual customer and the unique needs of the employees, and they contribute to the success of the people they work with.

 They are constantly learning

Successful entrepreneurs know what they don’t know and because of this they never stop learning. They have a growth mindset. They are willing to face challenges, make mistakes, and learn from those mistakes. Also, entrepreneurs make the time to invest in themselves and their knowledge of business, their industry and new technology. Entrepreneurs believe their capabilities and intelligence can be developed with effort and learning.

They are unbelievably brave

Successful entrepreneurs are unbelievably brave for two reasons. Firstly, they are always being told what they can and what they can’t do and time and time again they have to stand up for what they believe in. Secondly, successful entrepreneurs face failure every single day. They quickly learn how to pick themselves back up when things don’t go to plan, a valuable trait for anyone to have, but especially important for entrepreneurs.

Their word is their bond

Perhaps the most valued and respected quality is a reputation for absolute integrity. Successful entrepreneurs are brutally honest in everything they do and with every customer interaction. A successful business is based on trust. Your success in becoming an entrepreneur will be determined solely by the number of people who trust you, are willing to work for you, give you credit, lend you money, buy your products and services, and help you during difficult times. 

Have other thoughts on the traits that make a successful entrepreneur? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!