"Entrepreneurial? What Do People Notice About You?"

In trying to uncover your entrepreneurial niche, it can sometimes be helpful to reflect back on what people have noticed about you. For example, have you ever been told that you're a really good listener and you make people feel appreciated? Or perhaps people comment over and over about your obvious love of family, or nature, or animals. Maybe you've been told that you always seem to find the right words to comfort someone, at just the right time.

These can be important clues as to what you should be doing in life -- and how you can turn that into dollars and a fulfilling career as an entrepreneur. Why not take a moment right now, to jot down what people observe about you. In the unlikely event that no one has ever told you, ask some people whose opinions you respect -- but ask them to be honest with you -- you're not just fishing for compliments.

Countless entrepreneurial ventures have been started as result of someone wanting to make some money at what previously had just been a hobby or an interest. Think caterers, toffee-makers, cookie bakers, dog groomers -- these are just a few. Now, don't misunderstand me: I do not mean that's all you need to develop a strong business. You need to do your market research, develop a business plan, and more -- but tapping into your natural attributes can be a great start.

Having a great idea for a new product or service is just one part of what you need to succeed in business. You also need an entrepreneurial mindset. Do the self-quiz below. If you can (honestly) answer yes to all or most of them, the entrepreneurial route may be right for you.

• Do you like taking charge of your future?
• Do you like setting your own schedule?
• Do you like making decisions?
• Are you ambitious?
• Are you self-motivated?
• Do you have what it takes to persevere through lean times?
• Are you willing to take risks?
• Are you willing to forgo a regular salary and vacation?
• Are you willing to continually market your product or service?
• Do you have good people skills?
• Do you have what it takes to lead?
• Can you bring out the best in others?
• Are you prepared to work long hours?
• Are you organized -- or are you willing to delegate to someone who is?
• Are you disciplined?
• Do you have a high tolerance to stress?
• Are you in good health and have sufficient energy?

If you can't answer yes to most of these questions, don't be discouraged. It just means that you're probably better served by working for someone else but your objective should be to get a great job that you love. You can still use the observations of others to determine where your strengths can be best utilized. Knowing that, makes you far more valuable to a prospective employer.

If indeed, you do show signs of being an entrepreneur, I would encourage you to do everything in your power to start your own business -- even if it has to be part-time at the beginning. While it is true that being in business for yourself can be a daunting responsibility, it is my opinion that it is the only true way of achieving total freedom.

And by the way -- don't let the list above scare you. Being your own boss does not have to mean forgo a regular paycheck or holidays, forever. Nor does it mean you will always be working long hours. However, you must be willing and able to make these sacrifices at the beginning of your venture, and then you can focus on exactly what I teach: leveraging your time and talents to work less, while earning more -- and having FUN!

©2009 Karen Dodd International

Karen R. Dodd publishes the weekly e-zine 'In Focus: Success & Marketing Highlights' for solo-preneurs. If you are looking to jump-start your marketing, get true time leverage and have more fun in your business -- get your FREE tips now at www.KarenDodd.com