One sometimes wonders whether opening your own business will be the correct decision.
Where does one start? The answer is easy. You start with yourself.
Your business is in fact a mirror image of yourself.
The things that you value in life, the way you think, the manner in which you act, can all be seen as looking at your business.
When people see your business, they see you!
It is therefore important that you should "fit" into the business that you are running.The following questions will assist you in deciding whether you have the characteristics of an entrepreneur. (Please note this is not a scientific test, but merely some guidelines).
What do I value in life? What is my general approach to life?
Some people act from a deep conviction of selfless service without any personal gain. Such people are not motivated by money. Although money alone does not motivate entrepreneurs, profits are extremely important.
How do I normally approach a situation?
Two people may face the same situation. One may see the situation as a threat, while the other may view the same situation as an opportunity.
Entrepreneurs have the cunning ability to see an opportunity for new business in almost any situation.
Am I one of those people who do their best to excel in everything I tackle?
Achievement is not necessarily something spectacular.
Often it is the total of many small achievements that point to your suitability as an entrepreneur.
A strong achievement orientation is one outstanding characteristic of an entrepreneur.
How many of the following statements refer to me?
I am a helpless victim of circumstances beyond my control.
If only my parents were rich?
Why is he/she so lucky?
Why is this happening to me?
If you view yourself as a victim of circumstances beyond your control, you may be the type of person who blames everything that goes wrong on somebody or something else.
To be a successful entrepreneur, you should be fully accountable to what happens to you.
The entrepreneur acts on the firm conviction: "I am in control, I can make things happen."
Can I live with the idea of investing all my time, talents and money in a business that may face an uncertain future.
Starting your own business is risky, but also has its rewards.
If you consider starting a business, you must be prepared to live with uncertainty and face certain risks.
The way you plan your business may not turn out the way you expected and you must be prepared to deal with it.
This column was written by Professor Miemie Struwig of the Department of Business Management at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University and appeared first in Eastern Province Herald

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Luther Diedericks
www.sabusinesshub.co.za