Let’s talk first about my definition of an Entrepreneur. I looked at several different definitions and somehow none of the ones I saw were complete so I combined a few to make what I think the definition has meant for me….
Entrepreneur: A person with the capacity and willingness to develop, organize and manage a business venture, along with any of its risks, in order to see gain, profit or just for pure satisfaction. Innovative and risk taking. They are an essential part of our ever changing and very competitive global marketplace. Seeing opportunity around every corner and pursuing it even if they lack the resources to do so. And in my belief (speaking of myself of course) a little bit crazy and a tiny bit eccentric.
So by now you may be thinking how do the 4 D’s fit into all of this and what are they? Well let’s take a look. The 4 D’s are Dream, Desire, Determination and Drive. (Definitions are taken from Marram Webster Dictionary)
Dream – An idea or vision that is created in your imagination and that is not real (yet), something that you have wanted very much for a very long time. A dream doesn’t have to be original, it can simply be to improve an existing product or service that is already out there. Or perhaps your dream could be to own your own business, maybe a restaurant or a bar. Maybe it is a totally original and new idea. But the bottom line is that your dream must be something you can get excited about, get totally and utterly wrapped up in. This dream needs to make you have the desire to move forward, or it is simply a dream nothing more.
Desire – A strong feeling of wanting to have something or wish for something to happen that promises enjoyment or satisfaction. Desire is so important! Without the real “feels it in your gut” want for something you probably better find something better to do with your time. Being an entrepreneur is one of the hardest things you will do. But the pure adrenaline rush you get from it will keep you going if you really want it. Owning your own business especially in the startup phase, means long hours and many a sleepless night. But if what you are doing is truly your dream you will need the drive and the determination to follow through and propel yourself forward in order to achieve that satisfaction you so desire.
Determination – Firmness of purpose, a quality that makes you continue trying to do or achieve something that is difficult.
Drive – An innate, biological urge to attain a goal or satisfy a need.
If at first you don’t succeed try, try again! Something most of our parents told us as we were growing up. I know I heard it and I am sure most of you did also. Entrepreneurs must have the ability to overcome and move forward when the hard stuff comes along. Problem solving, decision making and risk taking are a regular part of every entrepreneur’s day. You must be determined and have enough drive to continue down that rough road. If you are easily frustrated or have a tendency to not finish what you started than entrepreneurship probably isn’t for you.
Do you think you have what it takes? Do you have the “4 D” qualities? Entrepreneurs are a relentless, seek and solve bred. I suspect that most of them are born with it. I am pretty sure it can’t be taught but I truly hope it can be encouraged.
“I don’t have any limitations on what I think I could do or be.”
~Oprah Winfrey
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