Stories about successful people, particularly rags to riches stories, have always been touted to us whilst growing up; successful people in these stories always have a set of particular characteristics – they are persistent, innovative, resilient, and passionate. However, in the real world, the qualities of success cannot be put into such a neat little box.
Bangladesh is obsessed with business schools; so much so that BBA is almost synonymous to an undergraduate degree in common parlance. In business school we learn about all the qualities of successful entrepreneurs and we learn why one needs to be passionate and so forth to become a successful entrepreneur. All of it sounds true and logical; yes, most entrepreneurs do share a few certain qualities. But can entrepreneurship really be taught?
If it was so, then all entrepreneurs would use the same proven track record for success.
The truth is there is no fixed formula for becoming a successful entrepreneur. Each entrepreneur has their unique way of seeing a situation. Entrepreneurship is neither a science nor an art, but somewhere in between; entrepreneurs are like agents who are constantly inventing and reinventing ways of solving the many problems faced by people, while turning a profit in the process.
Nothing about entrepreneurship can be taken for granted or expected. Nobody can predict the future or insure against the risks you will be facing so it is on you alone to save yourself and survive. That’s why being an entrepreneur is not easy as most entrepreneurs will tell you; and the fact that so few among business school graduates actually go on to become entrepreneurs is the most telling evidence.
Since entrepreneurship involves doing things unconventionally, thinking out of the proverbial box, the following is a list of “weird” traits that are common among entrepreneurs. Which of these supposed “weaknesses” can you call your biggest strengths?
Tempestuous
Having a tendency to disobey rules set by others portrays you as rebellious but it also shows that you are ready to break the norms to establish what you think is right. This is necessary for being a trendsetter and innovator.
Hyperactive
Being discontent with lethargy means that your mind is constantly thinking of something and never at rest. It is a proof of an active mind that is much needed for entrepreneurs to be able to come up with quick solutions.
Rude
You might come off as impassive or even rude to many for not participating in social pleasantries, but nobody understands that it is because you find these unnecessary and sluggish and that you would rather stay away and be forced to participate in false social norms. These are not signs of being unsocial; rather, it means you have no time to waste being a part of the facade the rest of us work all our lives to keep up.
Un-hire-able
Some people have too big and active a mind and imagination to work under someone. They want to carve out their own niche, walk their own path and let others follow. These are the ones who realise their entrepreneurial talent after losing a job or five. If you have a similar history, maybe you should not lose hope just yet.
Obsessive
Once you start on something it is impossible to let it go unfinished. This characteristic is the single most distinguishable trait of an entrepreneur; it shows undying commitment towards work which is needed for success. This is driven from extreme passion for what you do to the point that it becomes an obsession.
