“If you need words of encouragement, don’t become an entrepreneur"

What does it take to be an entrepreneur?

Elon Musk, the richest man in the world said these:

“If you need words of encouragement, don’t become an entrepreneur"

“If you need inspiring words, don't do it.”

This sound discouraging to some of you right? Some of you become entrepreneurs because this is the only path you can take especially when you are jobless, when nobody is willing to employ you, or employers are not paying you enough to feed your family.

Of course humans need encouragement and inspiration. These are vitamins for the soul.

As humans, we do experience self doubt. We lose our way. We suffer from the imposter syndrome. We get distracted by shining objects. The grass on the other side is always greener. We are easily tempted to go hopping from one business opportunity to another. Who doesn't, right?

what did Elon Musk really mean when he said that?

This is what I think he meant.

As an entrepreneur, you have to be self-motivated and not depend on other people to motivate you.

You have to self-learn and not depend on other people to spoon feed you the answer.

You have to discover what works for you and not listen blindly to gurus as if it is the gospel truth.

Elon Musk has a point. The truth is that not everyone can be an entrepreneur.

Some are more suited to be an employee. They do what they are told to do. The work is given in their in tray. They don' have to look for work.

Do you have what it takes to be an entrepreneur?

Don’t look for an easy way because there are no easy ways. There are simple ways but not easy ways. For example, losing weight is simple. Jog every day. It is simple but not easy. If you are lazy, entrepreneurship is not for you. Bruce Lee said, “Do not pray for an easy life; pray for the strength to endure a difficult one.”

You must be hardworking. Put in your hours of work. Do what is difficult. Do it even when you don’t feel like it.

Success comes with a price. How much are you willing to sacrifice for it? What is the price you are willing to pay today to live a better life tomorrow?

Successful people have one common trait. They are OBSESSED with their pursuit. They eat, sleep and dream about their business.

Once you have earn enough, you can afford to slow down your pace, employ staff, and enjoy a quality lifestyle.

This is an advice from a millionaire: ""Do what you have to do first, then do what you love to do"

Here is a daily ritual you can adopt to move you forward. In the morning, write down your ‘to do’ list. Prepare your mind by doing your own self pep talk. Speak out your mantra, vision and mission. Remind yourself about your calling and purpose. Then go forth on your mission.

In the evening, review your work. Do a post-modem. What have you done well and has work for you (success)? What did not work for you (challenges) and what you are going to do about it? How can you do better tomorrow.

As you keep the momentum and review your progress daily, you will be able to move forward in your own lane towards your goal.