Musk, Winfrey, Huffington, and Bezos exemplify business success. Interestingly, they share some common traits, as do other top business founders.
Which of these traits do you possess in common with successful business founders?
Entrepreneurial Spirit
- Has a passion, a specific purpose
- They’re the “crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers, the round pegs in the square holes,” said Steve Jobs
- Thinks of problems as exciting challenges
Optimistic
- Believes future outcomes will mostly be positive
- Listens, asks for opinions, & reflects before making a decision
- Believes there’s a solution to every problem
Strong Work Ethic
- Works harder than others
- Is persistent
- Is highly productive
Adaptable
- Adapts to a high degree of ambiguity
- Copes with unexpected changes
- Is flexible
Self-Discipline
- Pursues an objective even when it’s difficult
- Avoids procrastination
- Visualizes and internalizes success
- Prioritizes
Self-Motivated
- Pushes self to achieve goals
- Keeps a tight focus
- Focuses on end goal
- Can feed off the motivation of others
Curious
- Always looks for a better way to do things
- Always wants to learn more
- Desires to take things further
Risk Tolerant
- Predisposed to a high tolerance for risk
- Takes calculated risks
- Knows what’s at stake and what the potential payoff could be
Confident
- Identifies one’s strengths and weaknesses
- Doesn’t need external validation
- Has full faith in own decision-making capabilities
Leader
- Provides motivation for others
- Encourages collaboration
- Inspires trust
- Recognizes individuals’ successes and contributions
Source: Small Business Expo LLC
