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What do you call an aspiring actor?

A waiter.

Now, what do you call an unsuccessful entrepreneur?

Unemployed.

There is no such thing as an unsuccessful entrepreneur. The question then becomes, what is the defining characteristic that entrepreneurs possess that enables them to be labeled an "entrepreneur".

The foremost characteristic that enables people to elevate themselves to becoming an entrepreneur is an unyielding passion for their business. What is passion?

Passion is having a burning desire to succeed. Passion is doing something you love so much that it doesn't feel like work. Passion is waking up without an alarm clock. Passion is feeling the same way on Friday night as you do on Sunday night. Passion is talking to complete strangers about your business. Passion is sometimes getting red in the face. Passion is eating Ramen noodles instead of going out to eat because you need the money. Passion is found on the cover of Time Magazine. Passion is surfing the internet to dig deeper into your business. Passion is starting early in the morning and ending late at night. Passion is the reason you'll never quit. Passion is reading books. Passion is sacrificing things. Passion is writing down your goals. Passion is getting a customized license plate. Passion is having a desire to succeed that is stronger than your fear of criticism from others. Passion is changing careers. Passion is joining a club. Passion is telling everyone you know about your business. Passion is talking with your hands. Passion is wanting to write a book. Passion is detected a hundred feet away. Passion is Donald Trump, Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey, and Russell Simmons. Passion is knowing that the money will follow. Entrepreneurs have passion.

The best way to becoming an entrepreneur is to recognize your passion. You'll know it when you find it.

Learn more about this author, Tom Davenport.
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