Startup Spark

Got what it takes? Find out with this quiz.

by ShannonCherry on October 23rd, 2007

Becoming an entrepreneur isn’t easy – and it isn’t for everyone. It takes courage and determination. If you are someone who’s thinking of becoming an entrepreneur and developing a values-driven business and lifestyle, ask yourself these questions to discover where you stand. Rate yourself as honestly as possible.

If this is something you are missing or not good at, give yourself a -1

If you are okay in this are, give yourself a 0

If this is one of your strengths, give yourself a +1

1.      Are you a self starter?

2.      Do you LOVE doing what your business will offer?

3.      Is it important to have free time to do the things you enjoy?

4.      How well do you get along with different people?

5.      Do you have a strong desire to create your ideal life and business?

6.      Do you need new challenges to reach your personal or professional goals?

7.      How well do you make decisions?

8.      Do you have the physical and emotional stamina to run a business?

9.      How well do you plan and organize?

10.  Can you develop a vision and a plan – and stick with it?

11.  Would you like a six-figure income, without working long hours?

12.  Are you looking for personal or financial independence?

13.  Is your drive strong enough to keep you motivated when the going gets rough?

14.  Are you willing to commit time, energy and keep an open mind to achieve your dreams?

15.  Is your family supportive of you doing this?

16.  Can you surround yourself with excellence to support your goals?

17.  Are you always looking for people, books, resources that will inspire and motivate you?

18.  Do you know when to find others to help you with the things you may not be good at, such as marketing, graphic design and business management?

19.  Do you have the financial resources to keep you going for at least a year if you don’t have income from the business right away?

20.  Will you celebrate every milestone, whether success or failure?

21.  Are you ready for real success?

Add up your scores.

A negative score means that entrepreneurship might not be the right career for you.

A score between 0 - 6 means you have the potential to be an entrepreneur. You have a dream, but a personal development or educational program would be beneficial to clarify and enhance it. It’s time to think seriously about preparing yourself for the challenges that come with being an entrepreneur

A score between 7 – 13 means you have the ambition to make it as an entrepreneur. Motivation or drive has long been considered as having an important effect on performance. Psychologists now claim you can increase the motivation and the personal capacities that will improve your effectiveness and increase your chances for success. Much of the development of such achievement motivation depends on setting the right kind of goals for yourself. All you need to do is get the help you need to increase your motivation.

A score of 14 - 21 means you have a strong potential and commitment to succeed as an entrepreneur. You’re poised for action. You are willing and able to take calculated risks supported by solid information and based on experience. You are probably energized by the work you do because its stimulating and innovative and offers opportunities to master challenges. However, don’t launch too fast. Be sure to have your business plan, including a marketing plan and best case-worst case financials. Poor planning is still one of the most common reasons for business failure.

But here’s the surprise: if you scored less than you hoped, you may also be a good candidate. Remember, there is no set formula for who can and cannot be a successful business owner.

In the end, whether to start your own business or not, should be your decision. A decision based on your goals, your abilities, your financial situation and many other factors. This entrepreneur quiz is meant to be a starting point: an entertaining way to get you thinking about yourself. One of the keys to being successful is to recognize your strengths and your weaknesses. It’s easer to move forward, when you know where you already are.

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POSTED IN: Entrepreneurship, Leadership