When you’re presented with a problem you have no idea how to solve, what do you do?
A) Do you highlight the major obstacles in a dejected tone and quit? (i.e. “I don’t know how to code” or “I don’t know anyone in the entertainment business”)
or
B) Do you immediately identify how to overcome the obstacles and get to work? (i.e. “I know Jeff who knows how to code” or “Liz is friends with Jill, who works in entertainment”)
If your first thought is “A”, then you’re not an entrepreneur…yet. “B” is the mentality of an entrepreneur. It seems pretty straightforward, but in my mind, this is the true litmus test to whether or not you’re ready to be an entrepreneur.
Admittedly, I was option “A” a few years ago. I wanted to be an entrepreneur, but I wasn’t ready yet. I’d have an idea, think about starting a business around the idea, and find one or two obstacles in my way. Instead of trying to figure out a way to solve them, I pushed the ideas aside with an “Oh well” attitude. It’s obvious that I was neither ready to be an entrepreneur or passionate enough about my ideas. If that’s how you currently think, have no fear. There is still hope for you.
Today, I’m 100% option “B”. I got to this point because I was tired of thinking, “I can’t do this” or “I don’t have that.” Instead, I worked backwards and figured out how I could get this and that. I took baby steps and set small goals that would lead me to the next, which would put me on the path to my ultimate goal. This freed my mind from the paralyzing fear and just to focus on finding solutions to problems.
I’m currently working on a project that requires intense statistics and data engineering. Two things I am NOT proficient in let alone an expert. Three years ago I would have given up, but today I’m studying hard and reaching out for introductions via my professional network. I’m not deterred that I’m way out of my league with this math because I know I can connect with the right people to find a solution. It’s a great feeling and one that I hope other BoumanBlog readers have the opportunity to feel.
My advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to reflect on how you approach problems/situations that you are unfamiliar with. Your answer will indicate if you’re ready to be an entrepreneur. It’s possible to mature into an entrepreneur, some may disagree, but I believe this 100%. If you’re afraid and need a pep talk, feel free to shoot me an email.
