Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Dianne, Miami, FL — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 15:01:14 GMT

I actually am an entrepreneur by nature. My father started a business back in Jamaica (where we are from) and ran it. Then when we came to US when I was a child, he did what he had to do and took a job. I think he got used to it. Then when things got difficult, he tried to start something again but it just wasn't working. I have always been selling and trying to find my entrepreneurial way and have had many stops and starts. Then about 6 months ago, I decided to do something outside of my job and it wound up sparking that interest in me again. Now, I am going to be laid off by the end of April. First off, I'm glad I made that move 3 months prior to the "bomb drop" and I am now opening myself up to the possibility that I can be a freelance independent contractor to start and eventually run a business as a result. I'm at the point where I have low living expenses, no encumberances and I think I'm a lot more mature and mentally able to become self-employed and eventually a business owner. I can work on projects and move forward rather than drone on. I have failed and stopped and started so many times but with what's going on in the economy, there was this big honkin' sign that I can't ignore. For me, this feels right. Right time, right "me". My priorities are to keep my lifestyle and grow from there. If I fail again, all I do is get back up. Companies don't "take care" of their employees anymore. It's up to us to take care of ourselves. I think I'm responsible enough to pull it off.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Jeanne Gardner — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 15:08:40 GMT

This article is very motivating. I recently started my own busines after reading www.LastBiz.com/16925. I love the opportunity in today's economic environment to do something I love and be my own boss.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Jean-Luc Park, Bethedsa MD — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 16:02:30 GMT

If you wonder if you're ready to be an entrepreneur, the answer is NO.

If you're going to read the above and ignore it, then you're on your way to being an entrepreneur. A real entrepreneur will do what it takes to succeed. Taking out your own trash is not an impediement.

The only people who can validate your business are your customers. The only way they validate is by buying your goods/services. Anything else is fluff. Prizes, accolades, awards, if these do not bring more real sales though the door, then they are at best distractions from your real business.

Being an entrepreneur is different from running a business, different than being your own boss, and rarely something you do just for the money.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Andy, MN — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 16:17:57 GMT

I think their is a big difference between WANTING to be an entrepreneur and BEING one. The one's who WANT to typically do/are for all the wrong reasons. They want a title (ie. President, CEO) whatever. They want money. They think it means working less.

People who ARE entrepreneur's have to be a bit on the crazy side. Typically you take on the torch and carry it for more altruistic reasons than money. Most if not all the entrepreneurs I know could care a less what their title is - saw an injustice or broken element in the world - then work tirelessly for less money to try to fix it. Those who are lucky succeed and in the end - get a pay day. If you are doing it for the money, you likely will not get past the hardest stages of being an entrepreneur.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Jennifer L. Schiff, Wilton, CT — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 16:26:33 GMT

I, too, come from a long line of entrepreneurs, JJ, on both sides of my family, and now run my own business, as does my spouse, whose father also was an entrepreneur. And I love writing about entrepreneurs and what makes them tick.

For me, being my own boss was a choice (wanting to be at home and available for my child). However, for many others it is a necessity, either because they dislike or cannot work for others, were laid off, or because they have some great idea that they feel only they can execute on.

Btw, the spouse and I love watching "Your Business" together on Sunday mornings, and find ourselves comparing our experiences to those of your guests.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Kamal Solaiman, Rockville, MD — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 16:33:00 GMT

My father was an entrepreneur with multiple unrelated businesses. Post undergrad, I want into a large company, but the culture just wasn't a good fit for me. Ended up getting an MBA from Wharton focused on entrepreneurship. Post MBA I went back to working in the corporate world, but eventually came back to my roots. I could be out there employed by someone and constantly worrying about my job, but I've opted to control my own destiny for better or worse by being self-employed. Lots of risks and uncertainty. Definitely not appropriate for everyone.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Lorraine, Los Angeles, CA — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 16:35:20 GMT

I think it's the most wonderful experience one can have. I have yet to become an entrepreneur myself, but that is a dream I hold dearly and in my thoughts everyday. I am currently going to school to get a degree just in case I should falter, but boy give me a chance to open up a business, get it going and keep it going, why I think that's just the best challenge of a lifetime. And she's right? This is not for everyone, but for those of us who have a vision and like the idea of being our own boss, well that perk alone is just a part of why this is a sound plan. It will not be perfect, of course, but what is. After all we're only human. But it just takes that one simple idea that can be sold and make you millions. In today's economy having to wait around for jobs and career fairs is just plain boring and besides you get to work for someone else. Give me my independence to make it or fail, I don't care, but I would love the opportunity to have my own business!

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Phil, Portland, OR — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 16:51:16 GMT

JJ:

I think you brought up a great point that entrepreneurs need to be aware of the "consequences" of starting their own business. Spotty cash flow, acting as both CEO and custodial, and the like.

I think life as an entrepreneur requires two things. First, I think people have to understand not only the upsides but the downsides to entrepreneurship. Secondly, I think they have to have an idea, product, or service they are passionate about and don't mind working 50-60 hours a week and doing menial and non-sexy tasks (like taking out the garbage) to be successful and see their idea succeed.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Josh P. Hewson, San Francisco, CA — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 17:23:57 GMT

I have a strong entrepreneurial spirit, have worked in a couple start-up environments and have always toyed with the idea of starting a business one day. In this economic climate, risk is especially scary. But with the so-called "secure" jobs losing stability daily and a crazy competitive job market, for the right idea, this might be the perfect time to pursue such dreams. Thanks for the candid insight!

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Gilpa, Atlanta — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 17:31:04 GMT

I think more than passion, it is the timing,vision and immediate action. Coming days,years and decade the whole concept of entrepreneurship will change. So divya's insanity will prevail if she can sustain the weather in our future global economy

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Shar09 — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 17:31:18 GMT

It takes a Mindset change, Self Improvement and the ability to fight FEAR. Fear is a huge obstacle that prevents many people from doing what they really want to do. It is the fear of branching out on your own, taking risk or the fear of change. Like NIKE says, Just do it. One thing that has helped me in overcoming fear is looking at my situation now and evaluating the pros and cons. What do I have to lose by taking a chance? I empower myself by reading books like Think and Grow Rich, by Napoleon Hill, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, by Stephen Covey, Your First Year in Network Marketing, by Mark Yarnell and The Science of Getting Rich by Wallace Wattles. If Entrepreneurship is in your blood, go for it and on your way seek the help of very successful people.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Bill, Portsmouth, RI — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 17:40:15 GMT

I have worked for others and worked for myself. I guess I like working for myself better than any company out there. I make my rules but need the discipline to live by them. If you think it take tons of cash to get started you're wrong. It only takes a good idea, your talents and hard work. Most entrepreneurs I know have trained themselves in many areas beyond their business needs, including janitorial skills. If you think you are above doing any job in your business then you are not an entrepreneur in my book.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Jordan Cassidy, Narragansett, RI — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 17:54:56 GMT

This article is dead on. My grandfather was an entrepreneur and my father wanted to be but cancer stopped him before he could begin. I'm graduating with an Entrepreneurship Management major and plan on opening my own business eventually. I think the passion is genetic, or at least passed down upon generations through your parents and grandparents values.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Luke Mallory, Richmond, VA — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 17:59:11 GMT

To become an entrepreneur, it first takes dedication and lots of logical thinking before you make any bold moves. You don't have to necessarily leave your job right away. If your work happens to be effecting your lifestyle and your abilty to stay balanced, then by all means do what you think is right. Once you have set a reachable goal and a clear objective of what you plan to accomplish for yourself and others, then act on it! Remember, whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it!

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

R F, NY, NY — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 18:12:42 GMT

Who knows! My father and his father were both entrepreneurs, who built their own businesses, each with their brothers (two very different ventures, both very successful). I grew up thinking I would work with my father, but got to the point where I didn't think I had the stomach for that kind of risk. And so here I sit, riding a desk, wondering what my employer will do come year's end, when I personally expect a second round of layoffs. If I were more capable of that insanity, and could channel that energy to create something where nothing existed, perhaps I'd have less sleep, but I'd also have the piece of mind that the decisions were mine, and mine alone.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Cecilia — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 18:49:37 GMT

I think that entrepreneurship is equal parts nature and nurture. If you grow up in a family that encourages risk-taking, chances are you'll end up more willing to take risks.

That said, successful entrepreneurship might be genetic. Some people have an innate knack for picking up on trends or sensing a shift in the direction of the cultural winds before anyone else. I don't know if that trait can be learned.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Kristina Tanasichuk, Washington, D.C. — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 19:01:00 GMT

We believe entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of the economy, and in many ways that is why we started the American Security Challenge, an emerging security technology firm competition that this year will give cash and contract awards to selected companies. The deadline for emerging security technology companies to submit their executive summaries is March 31st and all the details are at www.americansecuritychallenge.com we'd love to talk about the role of such challenges in moving innovative companies to market faster on your show! Help us protect America with the best technologies available! Thank you for your show!

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Karen R, CA — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 20:01:56 GMT

I have had my own business for eight years. Just when I think financially and time wise it's getting easier, something comes along to throw that notion out the window. While I don't regret the move I made those long years ago for one minute, I will agree it's not for everyone.
Fifty hours a week? Try up to twenty a day for the first two years. Lots of dirty heavy lifting. Taking out the trash is one of your minor tasks. Always remember, the sale comes before all else.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

tgc Cranbury, NJ — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 20:11:23 GMT

Someone once told me a simple test for determining potential for success as an entrepreneur. I have applied this to many people, and I find it mostly accurate. For example, when someone fails the test, you can usually pick out a personality characteristic that would keep them from succeeding, something like being unable to look past giving up a steady paycheck while the business is in its formative stages.
Are you under 40?
Was your father an entrepreneur?
Did you get along with your father?
The correct answers are Yes, Yes, No.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Stephanie W., Rochester, NY — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 20:38:15 GMT

I too think it's in your blood. My fathers' an entrepreneur, brother, myself (who knows before my father). Granted my online boutique isn't quite making enough to quit my full-time job, but you can be sure the minute it shows signs that it will...

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Berena Pena, San Diego, CA — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 21:27:54 GMT

I have been an entrepreneur at heart my whole life! And, for the last seven years I have been building my on-line restaurant guide where2eat.com. You have to be a little crazy to be an entrepreneur. The income can be devastatingly low and sometimes you wonder why you are putting yourself thru it. But, the rewards of freedom and knowing that everything you do is for YOUR company is priceless.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Sandra Phoenix AZ — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 21:34:06 GMT

genetics- yes- this gives you your tremendous energy, great risk taking ability, flexibility to turn on a dime when things are not working, action and results orientation, belief in your decision making ability and drive, lots of drive!

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

E.S. Blanchard OK — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 21:45:22 GMT

Call me crazy but I resigned last week! Yep, to start my own business, Always have dreamed about it and at the ripe old age of 40, I have finally found out that climbing that ladder over the last 20 yrs, it really is leaning against the wrong wall.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Larry — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 02:28:13 GMT

"...I never was one to sweat out the small stuff. Just looked at the big picture every day. I ride into the valley from the mountaintop, plan, plan and execute. Do my necessary daily operations with the business, evaluate our market share, attend to the non-stop details, evaluate what my status is in relationship to my goals. Then I go back up and look over the valley....at the big picture....and from there, I have a pretty good idea whether the moves and baby steps I have taken have worked in moving the company in the right direction and contributed to our overall progress....pretty basic stuff, not looking to net a huge amount money, the success of the business is MUCH more important to us than money by itself..."

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Arlene Walters, Marietta, OH — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 02:43:17 GMT

Having been entrepreneurs all our lives -- 73 and 74 -- mostly in the retail business, my husband and I still cannot see an empty building without thinking, "What could we put in there?" If it is in your blood, it never goes away.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Navnee trilok, Fremont, CA — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 04:40:20 GMT

My father was not an entrepreneur, nor my mother; but I am on my way to becoming one. I am working at it and it is hard work! 24 hours are just not sufficient, but I love it! All the work I put in is for myself, not someone else. I wouldn't want to do anything else.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Lee Skopelitis Greensboro, NC — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 12:37:17 GMT

My wife says she hates the word, "swimmingpool." Yes, that's my business retail store, build and service. Now I am Greek and as far as I know it's in the blood! My father and grandfather and most male Greek have that stubburn, independent drive. We work long hard hours, we don't feel the day is complete unless we have finished what we started and the customer is happy. But I'm that way even at home, especially if I'm cooking or cleaning or hepling the kids with a project. So, I think it's in the blood, I'm a Serving, Lion/Beaver.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

flores ,miami fl — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 15:46:25 GMT

the word insane really fits the spirit of an entrepenure,because we think outside of the box,an we have so much passion for the vision of life.when someone tells us it can,t be done,we repons by saying how can it be done.all my life i was told your not that smart.but it went in one hear and went out the other,my place in life is the magical place of being a enterprenure.we face the hard times with hope,and active vision.so to all who are running a small busin or who wents to embrace it,grow from it improve it.we are the driving force in the world.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Wayne, Mpls, MN — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 16:53:51 GMT

You have to believe with all your heart that it is in your best short, medium and long term interested...both personal and financial to be your own boss. You have to have the ability to embrace insecurity. A couple of many factors.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Randy, Loveland, CO — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 21:48:49 GMT

Growing up, I did not have anyone in our family that had the drive to be an entrepreneur, but my wife is an entrepreneur as well as a couple of close friends. In fact I work for a entrepreneur as well and the one quality that I have all noticed that they share is they are not afraid to try and fail. They adapt and innovate. In fact, being around them has inspired me to try my hand at starting a new business. Unfortunately, with the economy the way it is, that may be tough to do. So I am taking a page out of their play book...be creative and innovative. That is why I started my own website to raise capital www.swapstartmybiz.com. Not sure if it will work, but so far the response has been good and we'll see where it goes.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Stephanie, Detroit, MI — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 22:06:14 GMT

My husband and I have owned our own computer business since 2003. I do not agree that you have to be crazy to be an entrepreneur. On the contrary, one must be intelligent, motivated, creative and have a drive like no other. We have learned a lot over the years and surprisingly, in this economy we are growing. We employ six employees now, plus ourselves. The work is never ending and each day brings new challenges. This year we are on track to do over a half a million in sales. Wow!! However, we will not bring home even close to that amount. Being an entrepreneur has many expenses. Most people do not realize the hundreds or thousands of dollars in taxes that must be paid every month.Unemployment must be paid, even if an employee isn't receiving unemployment at the time (it's just in case some day they will). If you lease a space, don't forget about the lease payment that must be paid every month as well as insurance on the space you are leasing.Utilities, office supplies, building repair and maintenance, the list goes on and on. Did I mention you also have to have insurance on your employees. Yes, it is expensive, but it is all still very rewarding.I think a lot of people think to own one's own business is a walk in the park. Yes,you might have some free time and yes, you might end up rich.For now though, my husband and I will work hard, keep a smile on our face and continue to wait for one of those perks to occur!

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Cal Orey — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 22:48:01 GMT

To make it on your own you have to have patience, perseverence, and passion. Years ago, my father told me, "I like to play golf. But I will do it as a hobby on the weekends." Thus, he advised me not to try and become an author...He didn't want me to struggle and starve.

Today, I am keeping afloat and the fridge is stuffed with healthful food; health insurance payment is not past due. If you give 100% to your dream it can happen but if your heart isn't in it for the best and worst of times, move on. You will drown in misery.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Plain Talk — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 23:35:12 GMT

If your Dad is already wealthy, it is pretty easy to take a risk.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

julie barnes, Austin, Texas — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 23:45:20 GMT

Having founded several companies (some of which actually succeeded!), I have no doubts that I'm an entrepreneur. However, my latest venture is a business brokerage and I've discovered something that I had - until know - discounted: buying a business. It may not be quite as glamorous as carving out a new niche but it has the distinct advantages of existing structure and history - bad and/or good.

Looking back on my 'starting from scratch' adventures - I wasted a lot of time and money reinventing the wheel. I should have considered 'customizing' an existing one.

Current economic conditions have only served to enhance this option: 1) folks who are not entrepreneurial soon discover their aversion to risk in bad times and sell at greatly discounted prices 2) the uncertainties of employment finally outweigh the risks of ownership and 'latent entrepreneurs' discover their calling.

The internet bubble created a distorted view of business ownership. I'm reminded of the gold rush - most of us cannot identify a single individual who struck it rich - but we all know about Levi Jeans.

Here's to hard work, determination, and plain ole guts. There's never been a better time for entrepreneurs!

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Don Morgan Westville, SC — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 02:40:14 GMT

I'm not sure that I can vouch for any genetic predispositions for having your own business. No one in my known ancestry has had their own business. I happen to love what I do and found a niche. I like not having to answer to someone based own their own agenda or ideas of customer service. I would suggest to anyone to take the plunge and try it on your own. Having a backup plan is a good idea. Find your niche and make sure you love what you do. This country was founded by risk takers.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Barry Keller, Granite Bay, CA — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 03:33:59 GMT

I would rather die knowing that I had chased my dreams, than regretting never having taken the risk.

I grew up earning money mowing lawns, delivering newspapers, and doing handyman work. Maybe it comes naturally, maybe it's genetic, who knows. I do know that it is an integral part of my being, my personality. I ended up continuing my entrepreneurial pursuits by starting my own specialty retail automotive service and repair business. After eleven years of long hours, hard work, and never enough money to pay the bills, I left the business to pursue a corporate position. In some ways similar to the military services, what I took with me was very different than what I left behind; A maturity and confidence that came from having to hire and fire employees, from developing and maintaining customer relationships, from being "The Buck Stops Here", from developing a strong BS sensor from my dealings with vendors and customers and landlords and government officials and on and on, from building bridges to those I could trust, and building fences to protect my business from those I could not. I was practicing CRM before it became a buzz-acronym. I lasted about five years in the corporate structure, and fortunately found the real estate business, which is a nice medium-ground between the support provided by a corporate parent and my genuine love of working for myself. I wake up looking at each day with an eagerness to move forward, to accomplish tangible goals, and while I may not be a model of efficiency and grace, I love the sense of being free of a cubicle and the corporate environs. No walls, no barriers.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

C. F. Sutherland, 4851 HWY 35 N, Rockport, TX — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 12:31:05 GMT

A suggestion on entrepreneurs. Read the book "The MYTH OF E." It shows why entrepreneurs most often FAIL.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

John, Santa, Idaho — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 13:16:27 GMT

I work in my jammies. How cool is that? However, there are times when I work 24/7. That's not so cool.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Claudine, Chesterfield, VA — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 13:29:32 GMT

I have always wanted to start my own business and I have studied most of my life in the field, but things like property insurance and collateral were the main areas creating a real obstacle. I know that I could ask for loans and sponsorships; so I guess, it is a question of going out there and seeking such things and taking a chance. That has always been easy to put on the back-burner to mull about.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Laura Lerner, New Windsor NY — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 15:38:37 GMT

I started my own business in 1983 and held on to it until 1994. It was a trial and error, hit and miss proposition. I knew at a young age I could not work for anyone else. I have a big personality, my manner is passionate. I like things done in a logical and systematic way. Basically I felt that I knew more than anyone else. I wanted a place that I could call my own and put my education to work. I had vision. I like calling the shots. With an investment of only $4000, I pounded the pavement everyday; the old fashioned- way-door to door, cold call after cold call; sending thousands of postcard advertisements in the mail. There was a great sense of satisfaction for me although money came and went. I thought we (the shop) would certainly make it over the hump. If we could only make it to get that one contract that would put us on the map. We never did.
I reluctantly joined the work force in 1995. It was difficult for me and continues to be until this day. My work ethic remains the same, tirelessly working day to night, night to day; bringing knowledge and passion to the job, thinking that I will be with all my experience and skill; of value to my next employer. I am not and there is no satisfaction.
For the past 3 months. I have worked on a plan to re-open my shop. Again my own limited funding seems to work against me and the scared banking industry will not make a move. There is no glamore in the life of an entrepreneur; it is difficult grueling work to keep a business open and have the responsiblity of other lives depend on you; not to mention your own family.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

David Cornelson, Geneva, Illinois — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 17:56:47 GMT

I started my first consulting practice in 1997 and watched it flourish for four years and then get crushed by the economic impact of 9/11. My wife thought that was it for the whole self-employment bug. It was for her, but not for me. Once bitten, it's hard to go work for other people. I bounced through a couple of full-time jobs at banks and insurance companies (very stable), but it was as if I were being tortured every day by not being able to make decisions for myself. Then the opportunity came to go back into self-employment and although I knew my marriage would suffer its final blow, I took it. I just decided that if my marriage wasn't strong enough to accept my passion for entrpreneurship, then it wasn't meant to be. Since starting my second consulting practice I have started a software publishing company that focuses on reading software for middle-school kids and I have two inventions in the works. I'm also consulting at someone elses start-up company. I believe I will be an entrepreneur and eventually investor for the rest of my life. It is very much a philopsophy and way of life.

The thing about all of this talk of risk is insane to me. America was built on entrepreneurship. When did it become wrong to be American?

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

George Ochieng — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 18:49:09 GMT

Even though my dad was not an entrepreneur, I had always grown up knowing I would be one. I was passionate about independence and ability to follow my own dreams. Even though I was well paid I never stopped looking for opportunities to replace my income and grow my own business. I went to college and a year after my first job started a shipping services contracting business. Four years later I migrated to US from Africa and even though I went to business school for my MBA I knew I was destined for entrepreneurship in the USA. I worked for a thriving telecom wireless company soon after college but I could not stop from having side gigs of my own. When my company laid off our division in 2003, I decided to go full speed with my business.
It has been a great leap of faith; six tough years later I could not be happier pursuing my own dreams, having the time and making a living at the same time....I wanted it bad enough.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Lyn Devorkin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 19:02:45 GMT

I am the Chairperson of the Entrepreneur Committee for the Women in FoodService Forum. We are having our annual conference in Dallas, TX this coming weekend and we have a wonderful educational track on Sunday. One of our speakers is Margaret Heffernan, author of "How She Does It"--an amazing book; her research describes why so many females are successful entrepreneurs--I really encourage you to read it :)

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Larry Capra aka Zenabowli — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 20:09:42 GMT

There is an apparent truth to this thought, for me at least. I am a descendant of European farmers and merchants, with an intrinsic sense of pride, along with a knowing that job security is generated by my own productivity, perseverance and creative ingenuity. This lifestyle is learned vicariously by being close to people who live confidently and resourcefully through periods of success and failure. Knowing how to look forward, when to take a calculated risk and having faith in oneself are skills of intuition and not academia. I'm willing to bet that most successful CEOs for major corporations have had some exposure to an entrepreneurial experience.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Jan Richards, San Jose, CA — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 21:05:25 GMT

I had my first business, a cookie business, at 10. I started it to make the money to buy my first nice bike. I liked the bike. I loved the business, and the whole process of making a product I thought the customers would like, taking their feedback and continuing to improve the cookies I made, making the customers happier and the business better every week.

In the years that followed, I found my way back to the challenge and fun of being an entrepreneur three times. I have stayed on the entrepreneurial path for 15+ years in this latest iteration.

The entrepreneurial life may be in the blood, yes. Our daughter, about 8 at the time, was not happy with the rate of sales at her front-of-the-house lemonade stand. She suggested selling door to door before I helped her make some other adjustments to boost her sales to what she thought they could and should be.

I still think she, now 24, and our son, now 17, may find their way to the entrepreneurial life someday, though they don't see that just now as they look out over the career horizon. Time will tell whether the entrepreneurial call is as strong for them as I suspect.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Ralph Blanchard Rutledge GA — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 22:05:49 GMT

I have been an entrepreneur most of my life and I have known a lot of small business entrepreneurs as suppliers, customers, friends, etc. I have observed ten "personality skills" that are present to at least some degree in all of the successful small business entrepreneurs I have known (keep in mind that most entrepreneurs fail). These skills can be improved once they are found to be lacking but it is easier if they are a "natural" part of your personality. If you are weak in some or all of these areas, your chances of succeeding are greatly diminished and you may want to consider working for someone else. I think the extent to which entrepreneurial tendencies are "in the blood" probably has to do with the handing down of work habits and personality skills from parent to child. But there is no reason why someone who did not grow up in an entrepreneurial environment cannot become entrepreneurial. It is not genetic and it is not magic. For more see my blog http://smallbizwealth.blogspot.com/

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Donny Dallas TX — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 22:27:54 GMT

In this economy, if you have fear of becoming an entreprenuer, then Run. In this economy, if you see opportunity, and you see success, and you see growth, then maybe you are truly an entreprenuer. I have failed, horriblly in the past, I have also succeeded. Success is much more fun, but failure...that's where you learn everything that doesn't work. Thank God for Opportunity. Without it, we have nothing. Bad economy, bad timing, too risky...blah blah blah...if you do something great, you do it better than anyone else, then go do it. The time is never perfect, the time is only 'Right'.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Barbara Winter, Las Vegas, NV — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 22:47:01 GMT

I'm astonished by the myths that exist about what it takes to be an entrepreneur. Some of those myths seem more appropriate to the conventional 20th century businessowner than to the new idea-driven self-bossers of today who may have a very unconventional vision of what it means to be an entrepreneur, but, mostly, they want to build their own dreams, not someone else's.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Andre d'Avignon — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 23:38:54 GMT

Entrepreneur. I like just saying the word. I feel as though entrepreneurs are the ones who make the world go around. Everything revolves around you. You are one who makes it happen. And, IF you fail, you can ALWAYS get job with someone else, take their money, and then start something else later.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 00:38:47 GMT

ENTREPRENEURS are usually self centered people who do not want to work for others. They do not want to adhere to structure and are usually lazy people.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Joel, Minneapolis, MN — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 01:27:31 GMT

With the economy in such poor shape it's no wonder that futurists are predicting a huge rise in entrepreneurship. Some enter into it by choice, others because they can't find jobs. Whatever the reason, it still takes hard work and a willingness to take risks to make a go of it. After working for myself for 6 years I got a job at a Fortune 500 company. I spent 3 miserable years there before going back to working for myself. Ten years later I'm much happier and look forward to each day as a new challenge with new clients and new experiences that help to expand my abilities.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Steven Santa Clarita, CA — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 01:53:57 GMT

It took me years to figure out that my entrepreneurial spirit came from my mother.My mother died when I was sixteen. I could not figure out why I kept chasing the entrepreneurial dream of ownership. One day my uncle told me that my mother owned a music store. From his story, I figured that my mother's entrepreneurial spirit lives within me.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Gene Polhamus, Silve Spring, MD — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 01:58:12 GMT

It will end when the media stops telling people how bad it is and start encouraging people to fix the problem. We need to start buy real estate at the cheapest prices in decades. We need to start investing in stocks that haven't been selling at these prices in decades. The banks need to start making loans and Wall Street needs to stop listening to the media and start telling their investors to invest.

Right now we are in a Catch 22 situation. Banks aren't loaning money, we are buying products or investing because we are afraid to and because we aren't speeding companyings are laying off. So we have to stop being afraid and that is very hard. This week I am buying shares in GE, Disney and maybe Coke. Three solid stock that will be around a while. There is going to be a big jump up in the market by the end of the year and I want to be part of it. It may go down a little more first, wating for everyone to come around, but if you a couple hundred or a couple thousand you can spare it's time. Or buy a foreclure house for a third of it's value. THERE ARE HUGE DEAL OUT THERE PEOPLE. Let's get this recession over with.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Andrew Mastrandonas — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 03:38:04 GMT

I became an entrepreneur in 2005 after moving to Costa Rica. My companies are www.crcommunities.com, www.boomersincostarica.com and angevalleyfarmbandb.com. I was 41 when I started and I'm never looking back! I mostly credit my talented young business partner for getting me motivated. I also agree that having the drive to do something different (and being slightly different) and make customers happy is most important, not the title or money.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

April, Joahhesburg — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 12:22:22 GMT

My father was an employee all his life. Although he constantly said how he would run the business better than his bosses, I don't think he has the temperament. On retirement, my sister offered him the opportunity of creating a B&B from a house she owned. He took it on, but he drives her crazy by simply "managing" it at a day-to-day level - he relies on her absolutely for the creative ideas, the inspiration. He is a model employee, but that is what he is.

My mother worked as an employee all her life, but as soon as she retired (they are divorced) she started her first small business offering computer training to housewives and school kids. Then she got into filling printer cartridges. At 75 she still has a few irons in the fire.

My sister and I are both successfully self-employed - we are the primary breadwinners in our households. My brother wanted so much to be his own boss but he couldn't make it work. He is a mediocre employee, but a worse entrepreneur - he has the confidence and sales skills, but poor on "delivery".

I think at the end of the day, success as an entrepreneur takes hard work and discipline (which can run in a family's culture) or you get an amazing lucky break and are smart enough to get out before you mess it up.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Michael Ferreira, New York, New York — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 14:22:53 GMT

I am uncertain if I am an entrepreneur, but I am taking steps forward to find out.
I am 55 years of age, with over 30 years of experience in the industry I work in. I have always worked for others, in large organizations.
I recently came to realize, thanks to a company downsizing, that many companies, most often led by entrepreneurs value my experience and knowledge.
I plan to offer it to them with out all the overhead my former employer piled on.
If it succeeds, I will have a lot of people to thank since I did not get where I am with out the help and aid of others. If it does not, then I am sure I will learn and grow from the experience.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Walt Gillespie, Fishers, Indiana — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 14:24:39 GMT

The Hotdog Vendor

There once was a Hotdog Vendor. He hadn’t gone to school so he didn’t read the papers and he was hard of hearing so he didn’t listen to the TV, but he sold good hotdogs.

He stood on the side of the road and cried “Buy my good hotdogs!” and people bought them.

Business was good and he put up billboards telling about his good hotdogs. He had to hire more people.

Business got so good that he had to have his son come home from college to help.

When his son saw all the money that his dad was spending on help and advertising he complained. He said “Dad don’t you know there is a big Recession on and lots of people are out of work and many more have lost a lot of money.

Well, the man thought, “my son has been to college, he reads the papers and listens to the news on TV so he must really know what is going on. So he took down his billboards and stopped standing on the side of the road telling about his great hotdogs.

Sure enough, business got worse.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Dan — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 14:51:45 GMT

"And so am I" Actually, no you are not...I love to hate people that have jobs yet claim they are an entrepreneur...unless you are standing on the edge, do not compare yourself to people that actually are...it is insulting.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Mark Ware, Fort Lauderdale Florida — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 15:34:00 GMT

One third of our clients are startups or the result of M&A and a few have a family component. Family businesses can thrive if there is a "business first" philosophy with the management team. Otherwise, playing the family card in business is like going grocery shopping while starving: you'll get food, but probably buy things for more emotional reasons.

Mark Stephen Ware
CEO & Principal
Perception Lab, Inc.
www.perceptionlab.biz
Management and Marketing Advisors

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Heather, Rainier OR — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 16:09:14 GMT

I am looking into starting my own business on the side. I have a passion for photography and am good at it so why not try it? No one in my family has ever started their own business, but I've gotten to see how unhappy they can be at the mercy of their employer. My dad works for a pulp & paper mill in the NW that was recently bought out by a Canadian company and layoffs are just second-nature now. He's absolutely miserable. My job is great, but there are days when I'm dreaming about doing something I'm passionate about whenver I want. So, I'm starting to do my homework and will start small (part-time) and hopefully expand from there.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Jessica Nashua, NH — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 18:12:24 GMT

I am an Entrepreneur but surprisingly no one in my family is and I don't think anyone in past generations has ever owned their own business either. I don't know where I get the drive from, only that I was lucky enough to be born with it.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Tom Mulholland, St. Louis, MO — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 18:36:54 GMT

Many of the comments above are good and do not need to be repeated.

However, there is one thing missing. Successful entrepreneurship, like anything else in life, is brought about by belief -- belief that oneself WILL be successful, as measured bywhatever yardstick one deems important. The world teaches us over and over again that what we focus on will be delivered to us. If it is illness, then we will be ill. If it is life in abundance, then that will come our way. If we elect to write specific, concrete goals, then so much the better. The point is that tentative steps toward entrepreneurship will result in disappointment. Entrepreneurship, unlike many jobs, has no safety net and there is little to protect a person from the consequences of their results in business; there is no opportunity for delusion about one's success or lack of it.

If you choose to be an entrepreneur, then go do it, but do it wholeheartedly.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Peter George — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 20:05:35 GMT

All I ever wanted to do was to start and run a business. I have been fortunate enough achieved that goal twice. (I sold the first business after 15 years.) For me, entrepreneurism skipped a generation. My mother's parents were both entrepreneurs. However, it was my father, a fire fighter, who taught me the most about running a business and communicating with people. He didn't live to see me start my businesses, but I know he certainly would have enjoyed being part of them.

I met my wife before starting my first business. She admittedly was not the risk-taking kind. Now, she owns her own business and is very successful. So maybe entrepreneurism isn't as much about heredity as it is about being infectious.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Dan, Chicago IL — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 20:44:11 GMT

Different people have different reasons for going into entrepreneurship. My one and only reason is to make enough money to avoid working until I am 60. There are other reasons, but this is by far my primary driving force.

I have many passions, but I believe a passion cannot be enjoyed by working. A passion can only be enjoyed if there is no schedule or no daily responsibility(besides kids) attached to it.

I also believe people are not entrepreneurs because they don't want such responsibilities, some would rather watch tv or fail because of over complicating things that can be very simple.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Tommy Boy, IOWA — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 03:17:11 GMT

I think there is a fuel unique to each individual that mixes multiple elements in specific proportions to that person that creates success. Conversely, if the mixture is off in some proportion it can be corrosive, may cause paraylsis or death to the dream. The elements are: a) transmutation - ability to persist through the "fog of war" to realize revenues from your intellectual property, b) risk - able to cope with uncertainty, c) emotions - feelings running amok create panic and are not to be confused with intuition (haste makes waste - you need to manage your feelings), d) debt - you have to decide for yourself if you can handle a mortgage on the value you place on your human capital, and e) stress - you have to be clear with yourself if you are a lifestyle entrepreneur or seeking a scalable business for exit in a few years - both have stress.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Don Rua, FL — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 16:58:17 GMT

It's important to be an entrepreneurial 'couple' when you're married. If the business tanks, you're both cutting back till you find an income. Some spouses don't have the stomach for it, and I've known many entrepreneurs that found this out after the first marriage ended. But if you have the support, there's nothing more exciting than waking up every day working on 'your baby'. It's the money as much as just seeing your vision come to fruition.
Pay close attention to the governance docs if you take on investors. The joy of working on your business can dissapate quickly if you sign over so much of it that it's controlled by those that spend 2 hrs a week focused on it, rather than your 24/7.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

William, Hollywood, CA — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 02:33:27 GMT

Belief in yourself is absolutely necessary. Becoming an entrepreneur does not have to mean getting rich or having a large, successful enterprise. Fo me it was always freedom. I am now 70 and have a profitable B&B which allows me to constantly welcome and visit with travelers from all over the world. When my children were small I started a toy store in Lake Tahoe for fun. Mostly I have always had small advertising and design firms employing less than 10 people. No giant headaches, just lots of interesting projects to work on (Mercury, Apollo space, Boeing 747 development, introducing Japanese automakers to the U.S. market, publications in the entertainment industry and computer sciences as well as specialty medical and dental advertising and publishing. 50 years of low level competent entrepreneurship and still at it. You can to.

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Chuck hampton virginia — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 04:23:33 GMT

I consider myself an entrepreneur always comming up with ideas and marketing them It like an addiction for me

Entrepreneurship -- it’s in your blood

Donald Cranford, Atlanta, Georgia — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 11:34:17 GMT

It's a mix of nature and nuture, I'd say. I genuinelly think that some people are born with a genetic predisposition towards entrepreneurship, but if you don't know pick up the practical business skills for applying them over your life, you'll be lost.