Last month, Dragons’ Den auditions were in full force in Victoria and it got me thinking. Entrepreneurship is such a hot topic these days: countless articles and books have been written about it, entire universities’ curriculums have been built upon its principles and success stories touting billionaires who went from zero to hero abound.
So what makes a successful entrepreneur? Circumstance, genetics, experience, perseverance? Above all, I think experience is key. Successful entrepreneurs find a viable example to follow when they wish to start a business in a particular industry. They study the strategies of successful businesses already doing what they wish to do, and incorporate the best strategies into their own. A lot of useful information can be gathered by reverse engineering another company’s business processes.
I think some would-be entrepreneurs make the mistake of focusing too much on the idea of success; it’s better to focus on working on something meaningful by making a difference in the lives of customers. Such meaningful work often leads to success.
For most of my career, I’ve worked for someone else but about five years ago, my dream of having my own business came alive with Seaside Magazine. There is no question that owning your own business is a risky proposition, but with risk comes reward. Said another way: the better you are at managing risk, the more rewards you can reap. Consider the flexibility that comes with it, along with a better work/life balance, working from wherever you want, setting your own hours, wearing your PJ’s all day or even sitting next to your pets while you work. I may still have to endure the long hours that help invest in growing the business, but it also doesn’t feel like work because I’m having fun while doing it.How great it is that I make a living doing what I love; it’s my passion. But likely the best part, and the most rewarding for me, is having more time with my two kids.
In this issue, we are celebrating women in business; you can read about the stories of female entrepreneurs from all walks of life and hopefully get inspired to succeed in your own business. They come from all backgrounds but despite their differences, these women do have a few things in common: they are passionate, determined and committed to turning their ideas into reality, building successful businesses and living the dream. I hope their stories inspire you and leave you feeling fired up, ready to achieve incredible things!
