What It Takes To Be An Entrepreneur
Motivation for the Entrepreneur
Written by Kathryn Lang for Gaebler Ventures
Entrepreneurs may have the creative spirit to imagine a business or the education to put a plan into action, but there are times when the energy to get it done may not come. Having a system for motivation can help entrepreneurs get over the hurdles that building a business can bring.
Not getting it done can never be an option for the entrepreneur.
Entrepreneurial businesses run off the individual. Finding ways to stay motivated and encourage are essential to helping the entrepreneur make any business a success.
Some days finding the push to work can be difficult. It makes many entrepreneurs long for the days when someone (a boss) was looking over the shoulder with the reminder that the job had to be done. Instead of giving up a hope, entrepreneurs need to recognize individual strengths and weaknesses when it comes to consistency in work. Then it will be possible to formulate a plan that will keep the business moving along.
Understanding the Entrepreneur
Do you work well without guidance? Many entrepreneurs have the gift of vision but practical application can be a stumbling point. Finding a mentor or other type of support system can keep the entrepreneur motivated and moving towards a successful business.
Do you understand numbers and handle money well? The bottom line will be the bottom line in any business. An entrepreneur that struggles to get the money straight should include financial advice (in the form of an accountant or advisor) in any budget being developed. It might also be a good idea to seek financial guidance while developing the budget just to be safe.
Do you multi-task? Entrepreneurs face the distinction of having to do lots of things and often all at the same time. Individuals that are more focused and have the need to do one thing at a time may want to consider hiring an intern or assistant to help with additional tasks.
Are you easily distracted? Nothing will get done if nothing gets done. Running after one project and then another without completing either will leave an entrepreneur struggling to reach success or sometimes just to stay afloat. It might be more practical to consider hiring a manager for the business that will handle the day to day operations.
Creating a Motivating Atmosphere for Entrepreneurs
Develop a habit of organization. Knowing what needs to be done, when it needs to be done and how long it will take will make it easier for the entrepreneur to juggle the schedule of business needs.
Plan for down times. Schedule deadlines so that it leaves some flexibility for completion. Leave days on the calendar blank for a little relaxation or catching up if that down time was taken on another day instead of working.
Set up an incentive plan. Employees work better when a reward sits at the end of a task. Entrepreneurs should create a reward system as well. When a project gets completed ahead of time, a bonus (like a trip or dinner out) can be the best reward.
Figure a dollar amount for time. Knowing how much each hour (or even minute) of work costs will make it easier for many entrepreneurs to stay focused on the task at hand.
Build an encouragement wall. Put up motivational sayings, inspirational letters or emails that have been received or even pictures that bring a smile. Use the wall as a path to re-energize in order to complete a task or start a project.
Motivation means different things to different people. Entrepreneurs need to understand what areas require the most motivation and then develop a plan to meet those needs.
Kathryn Lang is a professionial writer and motivational speaker. She enjoys writing about a wide variety of business topics including youth businesses and finance.
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