Becoming an entrepreneur isn’t about luck—it’s about mindset, skills, and behaviors that align with turning ideas into reality. After two decades of running successful businesses, I’ve identified several traits that separate natural entrepreneurs from everyone else.
1. You Have a Knack for Spotting Profitable Opportunities
Entrepreneurs excel at seeing the financial potential in opportunities.
When we first launched stuff4GREEKS, I found a supplier offering blank jackets at $10 each. We transformed each jacket into a $200 masterpiece by applying custom embroidery to it. The embroidery gave it meaning and value.
This kind of insight—doing quick math to recognize profit you can reinvest into growth—is critical to entrepreneurship.
2. You Think Like an Owner
Even before I started my businesses, I had an ownership mentality.
While working at a newspaper, I made it my mission to ensure every issue went to press on time and error-free—even if that meant staying late without additional pay. This mindset taught me the value of accountability, a trait that has served me well as an entrepreneur, where every decision directly impacts your bottom line.
Think of yourself like as the CEO of You, Inc. Everyone to whom you offer your services in exchange for money is a client. Be reliable, and offer the best service possible. This mindset applies whether you are working a 9-5, driving Uber, or already run your own laundromat.
3. You’re Always Innovating
Successful entrepreneurs never stop learning.
Early in my career, I hired an employee who claimed to be proficient with spreadsheets. Yet, when tasked with inventory management, she resorted to counting on her fingers instead of using formulas. She didn't know how to use the tools, so we let her go.
That moment underscored the importance of staying ahead—whether by mastering spreadsheets or, today, by leveraging AI tools. Entrepreneurs are driven by a desire to continuously improve.
4. You’re Comfortable Taking Risks
Entrepreneurs know that risk is part of the equation. But it’s about calculated risk, not blind leaps.
When we opened Zeus’ Closet, our high-end custom apparel business, it was a gamble to specialize in premium products during an economic recession. But the bet paid off because we carefully analyzed the market and positioned ourselves as the go-to source for industries who needed custom-embroidered gear, fast.
5. You’re Purpose-Driven, Not Just Profit-Driven
While financial success is important, the best entrepreneurs are motivated by a bigger vision. For me, entrepreneurship is about personal freedom and helping others design their dream lives. This purpose has guided me to write bestselling books, deliver keynote speeches around the world, and build businesses that inspire and empower others.
So, what about you? Do you see problems as opportunities?
Do you take responsibility for your success, even before you’re the boss?
If so, the entrepreneurial road might be calling your name.
And if you’re ready to take the leap, don’t hold back. The world needs more visionaries who are ready to turn their dreams into reality.
Ready to start your entrepreneurial journey? Let’s talk about how we can help you take the first step. Reach out today.
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