There are 5 essential characteristics regarding entrepreneurial success. As the owner of 2 businesses and consultant to others who are are also entrepreneurs, I find these traits not only essential but curiously common among the truly successful.

At first glance they may seem rather mundane as they are not necessarily unusual skills or exceptional talents owned by the privileged few. No, these traits are found in the wealthy and well connected, the highly educated and the underprivileged and untrained as well.

The real "mojo" then is what people DO with these characteristics or traits that make the difference between being a success and just that guy who tried that thing or the person with the great idea who never saw it through.

1. The single most important trait is passion. It's loving what you do and doing what you love. Sounds simple right? The single biggest trait I look for is this IT factor. Call it the Tiger Woods principle. Is anyone surprised that he has a true passion for all things golf related? Is it any wonder he's the best at the game? In business, some see a successful person and say, "Well, they are successful financially, so naturally they love what they do and have fun doing it. If I owned a company making millions I'd love my job too." Just like Tiger with golf, he had the passion first, which led to the practice and perfecting of his game, then the success. He didn't fall in love with golf when he won his first tournament, but years before. Successful entrepreneurs have a passion plain and simple.

2. The second trait is dedication. The willingness to do what is necessary to see their passions realized. This separates the "doers" from the "dreamers". Lots of people would like to own a business; be their own boss. Those with a passion and dedication will actually take ACTION. I am amazed by people I talk to who want information about starting a business, who go on and on about what a dream this is and how much they want to do it only to have them tell me they don't really have time right now, or aren't sure they can devote a few hours each week to put a business plan together. Successful entrepreneurs get things done and do what it takes to make IT happen.

3. The third trait is persistence. Truly successful people don't give up or give in. When faced with an obstacle or set back, they will regroup, redesign, maybe even start over but they keep moving forward. It takes some stubbornness and discernment

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about Characteristics of a successful entrepreneur?
We want to hear your view. Write now!